Memory Test

Hi guys,

Is there currently any reliable and preferably free way to test a computer's memory?

I know back in the day, we used to use MemTest86, but from their website, I see from 2013 onwards, it is now a paid software.

I am looking to test the memory of a Dell Inspiron N5040.
It was not coming on at all, I reseated the RAM, and BOOM, back to work as if nothing happened!
Then the next day, not coming on again.
I am thinking failing RAM stick. (I know failing RAM slot could be an issue as well).
Any help to confirm my suspicion?

Thank you,
Blujay

 

Use Memtest86+ and run it for 8 passes if needed.
http://memtest.org/

 

Use the Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool.
http://m.majorgeeks.com/content/page/how_to_use_the_windows_memory_diagnostic_tool_in_windows.html

 

I had a look and there is still a free version available.
https://www.memtest86.com/compare.html

 

You should have no reported errors – not even one.

Note, however, while software-based RAM diagnostic tools are good, none are 100% conclusive. If they report any errors, even one, the RAM is bad. But it is not uncommon for them to report no problems, yet the RAM still fails in use, and/or when paired with other RAM. So, swapping in all new RAM is often the best test - but of course, not everyone has a bunch of spare RAM laying around so you might try running with just a single RAM stick to see if it fails. Repeat process with remaining modules, hopefully identifying the bad stick through a process of elimination. Just be sure to unplug the computer from the wall (and remove the battery if a notebook) and touch bare metal of the case interior BEFORE reaching for the RAM to discharge any destructive static in your body.

To conclusively test your RAM, you need to use sophisticated and very expensive test equipment, like this $2,495 Memory Tester (and that's for the cheap model)! So it is usually easier (and cheaper!) to swap in known good RAM and see what happens.