Memtest86 No errors on one ram stick, 143 errors on other stick during test#9

[Kumiho]

So recently I've been coming across frequent BSOD crashes and I've been troubleshooting various different hardware, checking disks, clean installing graphics cards drivers, even a fresh install of windows. Finally I decided to do a memtest, and ultimately got over ten thousand errors, much of which were on test#5 for my normal ram configuration (2 sticks, dual channel on the slots).

First I tested each ram individually on the same slot. The first ram had no errors in all its passes, and when I put the second stick in, it gained 143 errors on test#9 on it's fourth pass. I haven't tested switching the dimm slots configuration for both, and I haven't tested the 2nd dimm slots for each individually, but what I want to know is, is this a CLEAR indicator of a bad stick? I want to be sure it's not another piece if hardware and RMA the sticks immediately.

Thank you!

[David (PassMark)]

Yes, assuming you are running at stock BIOS settings and not overclocking, RAM appears to be bad. I would send them back.

[Kumiho]

Hi David, thank you for the response. I just have on quick question. I've swapped the slots just to be sure, and now it passes tests with flying colors. I've ran the free trial 4 passes twice now and it's not having any issues nor crashes, so I think I'll hold off on the RMA for now. Is there an explanation for this? Perhaps reseating or cleaning the contacts? Thanks in advance.

[David (PassMark)]

Perhaps reseating or cleaning the contacts?

Maybe. Or some other environmental factor (temperature, EMI). Or maybe you didn't have the sticks fully inserted for some of the tests.