2 Out of 4 RAM Slots Not Working | What Can I Do?

Dust buildup and BOOT errors are the most obvious causes behind the issue regarding 2 out of 4 RAM slots not working. In contrast, more complex reasons include failed BOOT attempts, bent socket pins, or simply dust buildup, motherboard malfunction, and faulty RAM slots. 

In most cases, clearing out the accumulated dust using a blow of compressed air solves the problem. Even if it fails, changing the DRAM voltage level to 1.57V eradicates the complication in most systems.  

How to Check If RAM Slot Is Faulty

No matter the reasoning, checking whether or not a RAM slot is faulty consists of a few simple steps.

1. Inspect the RAM

First off, shut down your PC while unplugging each of the components. Next, go through the instructions in the user manual to open the computer case. After that, locate the RAM slot(s) and carefully take the RAM stick(s) out. Use both hands to get a firm and precise grip. 

Once removed, pay close attention to the RAM stick itself to ensure it does not have any physical damage. Otherwise, you’ll have to replace the RAM.  

Easily remove and inspect your RAM with this precision screwdriver set.

2. Clean Accumulated Dust

The most common cause of RAM slots not working is the accumulation of excessive dust. If you hardly open the PC case, the RAM slots collect dust over time, which in turn causes them to stop working. So, clean the RAM slots with a blow dryer and test with a working RAM to see if it works. Most of the time, it does. 

But if it fails, you might be dealing with faulty RAM slots, bent socket pins, or motherboard failure.

Keep your RAM slots working flawlessly with this advanced PC dust cleaner.

3. Look for Bent Pins

A quick way of diagnosis is to examine the CPU, especially its pins. If you find damaged or bent pins in the socket, chances are it was the reason your RAM slots stopped working. In that case, seek professional help or replacements if still under warranty.

4. Test Each Slot Individually

Start with removing all the RAM sticks from the slots and connect a working RAM to the first slot. Then, press the power button and wait for your computer to boot. If the system starts successfully, it means that the slot is working. Now, eject the RAM from the current slot and insert it into the next one. 

Repeat this process until you have checked all the RAM slots on the motherboard. Each time you change the slot, attempt to start the system. And if you get an error message, you can mark that slot as faulty.

What are the Potential Causes of RAM Slots Not Working Issue

Generally, the causes are given below –

1. Dust Buildup: Over time, dust can accumulate inside your computer, leading to connectivity problems with RAM slots.
2. Hardware Compatibility: Ensure that your RAM sticks are compatible with your motherboard.
3. BIOS Settings: Your motherboard’s BIOS settings might affect the functionality of RAM slots.
4. Physical Damage: Visually inspect the RAM slots for bent pins or any other physical damage.
5. Faulty RAM Sticks: Test the RAM sticks themselves to rule out issues with the memory modules.

How Do I Fix the ‘2 Out of 4 RAM Slots Not Working’ Issue

Simply put, you cannot fix a bad RAM slot and make it work again. However, a faulty RAM slot does not necessarily mean an unusable one. There might be external issues, which can be solved using the following methods.

1. Blow Compressed Air Into the Slots

• Use compressed air to clean the RAM slots.
• Reinsert the RAM sticks.
• Turn on the computer.
• Check for errors during startup.
• No errors mean the slots are functional.

2. Checking RAM Compatibility

• Confirm that your RAM sticks are compatible with your motherboard.
• Check the motherboard’s documentation for supported RAM specifications.

3. Examining BIOS Settings

• Access your motherboard’s BIOS settings during boot-up (usually by pressing a designated key).
• Ensure that there are no restrictions or limitations placed on specific RAM slots.
• Update the BIOS to the latest version if necessary.

4. Inspecting for Physical Damage

• Visually examine the RAM slots for any signs of bent pins or other physical issues.
• If you find damaged pins, you may need professional repair or motherboard replacement.

5. Testing Individual RAM Sticks

• Check if each RAM stick functions properly by testing them in working slots.
• This can help determine if the issue lies with the RAM sticks themselves.

6. Seeking Professional Assistance

• When DIY solutions fail, consider professional help.
• Contact the motherboard manufacturer for guidance.
• Replacement might be necessary if slots are permanently damaged.

7. Change the DRAM Voltage

• DDR4 RAM typically operates at 1.2-1.4 volts.
• Increasing DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) voltage can resolve slot issues.
• Insert two RAM sticks into the second and fourth slots.
• Access BIOS settings.
• Raise DRAM voltage to 1.57V.
• Reinstall the remaining RAM sticks.
• Test if the problem is resolved.

Why are A1 and A2 RAM Slots Not Working?

Unresponsive a1 and a2 RAM slots are generally the victims of bent socket pins, or worse, motherboard malfunction. However, the instance of bent pins is always more probable than a failure in the motherboard itself. Either way, there’s hardly any DIY repair technique, leaving you with no other option but to replace the affected component.

Final Words

If the problem persists even after trying the above solutions, the RAM slot most likely needs a replacement. But it is easier said than done as replacing RAM slots requires soldering and stuff. So, instead of DIYing, ask for expert help. Besides, you can swap the motherboard with a new one to get the same results.