Many of us have experienced the problem of a single stick of RAM not working from time to time. It might be due to various RAM modules or incorrect RAM installation. However, there may be other factors at work.
So, after conducting extensive investigation, we discovered what the probable causes are and how to address them.
Now, let’s look at why one stick of RAM isn’t working and various remedies to the problem.
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Reasons Why One Stick Of RAM Not Working
Typically, we don’t have many issues with memory sticks because they are fixed in their slots. This is also why they have fewer diagnoses.
Let’s look at some of the possible causes of two RAM sticks not working together:
| Reasons for Not Working | Possible Solutions to Try out |
| Not Properly Installed | Install correctly |
| Incompatible with Motherboard | Get the supported one |
| Too much dust on RAM Stick | Clean the stick |
| Damaged RAM | Fix or replace |
| Software issue | Clear cache, restart PC |
Let’s take a closer look at some of the reasons. If you are in a rush, you may go straight to the solution section.
Faulty Installation
The manufacturers supply standard-issue memory sticks that we can insert and use both in our desktops and laptops. We can’t interchange desktop RAMs with laptop RAMs or the other way around.
Then there are different generations of RAM available – like DDR3 or DDR4. RAMs from different generations have different types of sockets in the motherboard to be fitted in.
Sometimes it can also happen that the motherboard’s capacity is not on par with the RAM DIMM’s capacity.
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Incompatible Motherboard
Manufacturers provide standard-issue memory sticks that may be inserted and used in both desktops and laptops. We are unable to swap desktop RAM for laptop RAM or vice versa.
Then there are numerous RAM versions to choose from, such as DDR3 or DDR4. RAMs from various generations require different types of motherboard sockets to be installed.
It is also possible that the motherboard’s capacity is not equal to the RAM DIMM’s capacity.
In addition, the maximum amount of RAM on a motherboard has an upper limit. We may circumvent this limitation by utilising as few as two memory sticks or as many as eight. Assume that a motherboard’s maximum RAM capacity is 8GB and that each slot can only use 2GB. As a result, utilising a memory stick with a capacity greater than 2GB or a total capacity greater than 8GB will not function.
All of the aforementioned factors can cause both or one stick of RAM to fail.
Dust Residue
Dust can accumulate in the contacts of a DIMM. Other little things can potentially hinder the connection between motherboards and RAMs. This might result in your system not operating with both or simply one stick of RAM.
Physical Damages
A power spike in the energy supply can occur for a variety of causes. Electrostatic discharge is caused by power spikes. This can harm the computer’s complex components, including memory sticks.
Excessive heat can be generated if the power supply unit is unable to extinguish heat or if ventilation channels are obstructed. Overclocking any component of the computer can generate excessive heat, which can ph