Related tasks
Before working inside your system
Removing the system cover
Installing a cooling fan
Installing the system cover
Related reference
Safety instructions
Getting help
Troubleshooting system memory
Prerequisites
CAUTION:
Many repairs may only be done by a certified service technician. You should only perform troubleshooting and
simple repairs as authorized in your product documentation, or as directed by the online or telephone service and
support team. Damage due to servicing that is not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty. Read and follow
the safety instructions that are shipped with your product.
Steps
1. If the system is operational, run the appropriate system diagnostic test. See the Using system diagnostics section for the available
diagnostic tests.
If the diagnostic tests indicate a fault, follow the corrective actions provided by the diagnostic tests.
2. If the system is not operational, turn off the system and attached peripherals, and unplug the system from the power source. Wait at
least for 10 seconds, and then reconnect the system to the power source.
3. Turn on the system and attached peripherals, and note the messages on the screen.
If an error message is displayed indicating a fault with a specific memory module, go to step 12.
4. Enter System Setup, and check the system memory setting. Make any changes to the memory settings, if needed.
If the memory settings match the installed memory but the problem still persists, go to step 12.
5. Turn off the system and attached peripherals, and disconnect the system from the electrical outlet.
6. Remove the system cover.
7. Check the memory channels and ensure that they are populated correctly.
NOTE:
See the system event log or system messages for the location of the failed memory module. Reinstall the
memory device.
8. Reseat the memory modules in their sockets.
9. Install the system cover.
10. Enter System Setup and check the system memory setting.
If the problem is not resolved, proceed with step 11.
11. Remove the system cover.
12. If a diagnostic test or error message indicates a specific memory module as faulty, swap or replace the module with a known working
memory module.
13. To troubleshoot an unspecified faulty memory module, replace the memory module in the first DIMM socket with a module of the
same type and capacity.
If an error message is displayed on the screen, this may indicate a problem with the installed DIMM type(s), incorrect DIMM
installation, or defective DIMM(s). Follow the on-screen instructions to resolve the problem.
14. Install the system cover.
15. As the system boots, observe any error message that is displayed and the diagnostic indicators on the front of the system.
16. If the memory problem persists, repeat step 12 through step 15 for each memory module installed.
Next steps
If the problem persists, see the Getting help section.
Troubleshooting your system
133
