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 bent socket pins, 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.
‘2 Out of 4 RAM Slots Not Working’ Error Solutions
Generally, the causes include failed BOOT attempts, bent socket pins, or simply dust buildup. While you can get rid of dust, the rest of the problems are hard to conquer.
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.
How Do I Fix a Faulty RAM Slot
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 get solved using the following methods.
1. Blow Compressed Air Into the Slots
Generally, the most convenient process to follow is getting rid of the accumulated dust from the RAM slots. You can blow away the dust using compressed air and get back to checking the slot. For that, insert the RAM sticks again and turn on your computer. If the computer starts with no errors whatsoever, the slots are okay.
2. Change the DRAM Voltage
DDR4 RAMs, in general, run at 1.2-1.4 volts. Updating the DRAM voltage can often solve RAM slot issues. The process begins with inserting two RAM sticks into the second and fourth slots. After that, you have to go inside the BIOS and increase the DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) voltage up to 1.57V. Then, connect the other two RAM sticks to check if that solved the issue.
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.
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