Troubleshooting memory using various methods can solve the memory problems. The beep codes and the memory diagnostic software are the ways to troubleshoot the memory. Following are the troubleshooting methods:
1. Using BIOS Beep Codes
2. Using PC Memory Diagnostic Software
Using the BIOS Beep Codes
The BIOS program does the Power on Self Test (POST) testing as the system turns on. This testing is done to ensure that the system is working properly. If the computer fails to start, a long beep is generated. This beep indicates that there is a requirement that there is a requirement to check the BIOS of the motherboard for errors.
Using the Award BIOS Beep Codes
Award is a BIOS developer. Award developer uses beep codes for recognizing the beeps when the computer boots up. If the computer boots up with one short beep then the computer is working fine. If more than one beep occurs then there is some error. The following beeps that should be taken care are:
1. 1 Long Beep - Shows the memory problem
2. 1 Long Beep and 2 Short Beeps - Signifies failure of the DRAM parity
3. 1 Long Beep and 3 Short Beeps - Signifies video error
4. Continuous Beep - Signifies failure in memory or video memory
Using the AMI BIOS Beep Codes
AMI BIOS is another type of BIOS used by motherboard manufactures. BIOS indicates the beeps those occurs during POST. Some of the faulty beeps are:
1. 1 Beep Tone - Indicates the failure in refreshing the DRAM.
2. 2 Beep Tone - Indicate the failure in DRAM parity.
3. 3 Beep Tone - Indicate the failure in the Base 64K RAM.
4. 4 Beep Tone - Indicate an error in the system timer.
5. 5 Beep Tone - Indicate the failure in CPU.
6. 6 Beep Tone - Indicate an error in the keyboard controller.
7. 7 Beep Tone - Indicate an error in the virtual mode.
8. 8 Beep Tone - Indicate an error in the read and write procedure of the display memory.
9. 9 Beep Tone - Indicate an error in the checksum of the ROM BIOS.
10. 10 Beep Tone - Indicate an error in the read and write procedure of the BIOS register.
11. 11 Beep Tone - Indicate an error in the cache memory.
12. Continuous Beep Tone - Indicate the failure in memory or video memory.