The demand for RAM is skyrocketing daily due to modern system requirements. Those who used to utilize one RAM stick are now going for more. As modern PCs have more than one RAM slot, it becomes advantageous concerning installing additional RAM.
But things become difficult when you notice that your 2nd RAM slot isn’t detected by the system or in short not working. Situations like this can be very frustrating when you’re a professional and mostly depend on your RAM for your tasks.
The most common reason behind this issue is the RAM isn’t firmly attached to the RAM slot. But there can be any other reason too. But there’s nothing to worry about as we’re about to share the effective fix for this issue.
So, without wasting much time, let’s get into them.
Why Is My 2nd RAM Slot Not Working?
In this case, the most possible cause can be –
- The RAM slot is facing compatibility issues
- There’s a problem with BIOS
- The RAM is placed inaccurately
It’s better if you find out the exact cause in your case so that you can apply the relevant fix. Otherwise, you need to apply the fixes one by one until the issue gets fixed.
What to Do When My 2nd RAM Slot Isn’t Working?
First of all, you’ve to make sure that the problem is with the RAM slot indeed and the RAM stick is fine. Then you can go for further processes if needed. Now, take the following steps accordingly –
Step 1: Start by checking the RAM stick. Therefore, take off the RAM, clean it with a soft piece of cloth, and try it in another active slot. If the RAM works then it’s confirmed that either your 2nd RAM slot is faulty or the RAM wasn’t firmly attached.
Step 2: Now, make sure that the RAM is firmly placed in the RAM slot. Remove the stick and reattach it in the slot ensuring that the RAM slot clips are holding the stick pretty well. If the RAM works then the issue is solved. Else, either your RAM slot is faulty or the RAM stick is incompatible with this motherboard.
Step 3: Make sure that the RAM you’re trying to use in this 2nd slot is the same type as the RAM in the 1st slot, or in other words, the RAM is compatible with the motherboard. If so and still the RAM is undetectable, either your RAM is defective or your RAM is facing the RAM capacity limitation issue.
Step 4: There are motherboards that come with RAM capacity limitations. To check whether this is the reason in your case, read the manual of your motherboard to verify if the RAM capacity is suitable for the limit. If so then the problem is with the 2nd slot.
Step 5: Finally, to ensure whether your RAM slot is the main culprit, use a fine RAM stick in the 2nd RAM slot and see if your PC detects the RAM now. If the RAM remains undetectable on your PC, then definitely your RAM slot is defective and you can’t do more by yourself but take the PC to a qualified technician for repair.
Bonus Points
You can try cleaning the RAM slot as accumulated dust and debris can cause this not working issue. So, arrange a soft piece of cloth or a compressed air can and apply it to clean the slot. Moreover, check if your BIOS is suitably configured or not. Inaccurate BIOS are to blame for this mess. Hence, make sure the BIOS is properly configured as 2nd slot RAM-compatible.
FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
How to enable 2 RAM in BIOS?
The procedure is pretty simple. Access BIOS and navigate to the Advanced Memory Settings or Advanced BIOS Features according to your system. Then locate the option named Channel Mode or Memory Mode and change the setting to Dual from Single. Finally, save the changes and exit.
Can a CPU cause a RAM slot to not work?
Yes, it can. A CPU is capable of preventing a motherboard from not using a RAM slot by regulating inappropriate voltage and current that goes to both CPU and RAM.
Can a RAM slot be damaged?
Yes, it can. Even though it stays in the chassis under protection. But if someone shoves something unwillingly or willingly into the RAM slot, in that case, the RAM slot can be damaged.
Conclusion
We’ve shared all the effective and prominent methods regarding your 2nd RAM slot that isn’t working. There won’t be any hassle if the fixes work. Otherwise, you’ll require the help of an expert. Let us know if the post proves useful and which fix works for you.
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