My computer won't POST with both of my RAM sticks but they work individually

Le Snerk · Jul 6, 2016

So as you can tell by the title I'm sort of in a pickle here lol I have 2x4gb ram sticks and they work individually in every slot but when they both are in together, my computer won't POST. Both are 1600 MHz.

Edit: So It turned out either my motherboard had to be updated or boosting the DRAM Voltage +.05 and increasing the CPU-NB Memory Controller a bit. And for intel users you should enable XMP to get the right speed for you RAM

alexoiu · Jul 6, 2016

What motherboard? Did you buy the modules separately, or as a kit?

Le Snerk · Jul 6, 2016

I have a MSI 970 Gaming motherboard. And I bought them as a kit

alexoiu · Jul 6, 2016

Although not recommended, I'd try updating the board's BIOS.

Le Snerk · Jul 6, 2016

See I was thinking about that but would that really help this situation I don't see a correlation with it. And I'm pretty sure this is the latest BIOS.

alexoiu · Jul 6, 2016

If inserting the modules in slots 1 and 2, or 2 and 3 (not 2 and 4), does it work?

Le Snerk · Jul 6, 2016

I have tried all the possible slot combinations (1&2, 1&3, 1&4, 2&3, 2&4, 3&4)

alexoiu · Jul 6, 2016

Can you test different kit? Or RMA yours?

ahnilated · Jul 6, 2016

insert one stick and run memtest86 to check it for at least 1 hr. Then insert the other stick in the same slot and test again. Then try a known working stick in each slot one at a time. Once you know they are all good then try installing the 2 sticks in the right slots.

bgunner · Jul 6, 2016

What ram are you using? please give the model numbers from the kit.

First install ram in to recommended slots, next clear the bios and try to boot.

IF it still wont post, you can increase the CPU-NB voltage a bit. This is the memory controller.

you can also try loosening the timings a little to help with compatibility.

you may need to try and add .05 volts over stock to the ram modules.

Le Snerk · Jul 6, 2016

Im not going to do that but thanks for suggesting that. I'm not going to run a test on 2 ram sticks that I know work.

ahnilated · Jul 6, 2016

Le Snerk :

Unless you have run memtest86 there is NO WAY you know they work 100%, period.

Le Snerk · Jul 6, 2016

I will do that bgunner. My previous post was to the guy before you.

Le Snerk · Jul 6, 2016

I'm not going to waste 2 hours on that they work individually. The reason why is because wow they work I did not know that. I appreciate your answer.

Le Snerk · Jul 6, 2016

I will try the increase in voltage. Thanks for telling CPU-NB is the memory controller.

Here are some numbers: 740617230482 or HX316C10FRK2/8 they both lead to the same product. (I couldn't find the model number on amazon)
Here is more info:

Kingston 8gb 1600mhz ddr3 cl10 k2 hyperx fury red8gb 1600mhz ddr3 cl10 k2 hyperx fury red Manufacturer : Kingston UPC : 740617230482

ahnilated · Jul 6, 2016

Le Snerk :

Well I have been building computers and working on them for 40 yrs and even I don't know if a ram stick is bad or not just by looking at them. You can also install them into a system and they will act like they work only to have other problems. If you don't start off of a base known working items then you will never be 100% sure your computer will be stable.

bgunner · Jul 6, 2016

after looking up the ram you have I have found it is not listed on the compatibility chart for your motherboard. This not to say it wont work. It is a roll of the dice though.

You could also try lowering the speed of the ram to 1333 and see if it will POST with both sticks.

Since the FURY line is on the newer side it is not surprising that MSI doesn't have it listed. The 900 series chips are really getting old and are soon to be replaced. IF you can not get them to work you will be forced to try different ram that is on the compatibility list, maybe sell your kingston to help off set the cost

Le Snerk · Jul 6, 2016

ahnilated :

Le Snerk :

Well I have been building computers and working on them for 40 yrs and even I don't know if a ram stick is bad or not just by looking at them. You can also install them into a system and they will act like they work only to have other problems. If you don't start off of a base known working items then you will never be 100% sure your computer will be stable.

I understand but I just don't think it is that server.

Le Snerk · Jul 6, 2016

bgunner :

This isn't a new build. I have had this for about 4 months. I should have clarified that. I know it works.

Le Snerk · Jul 6, 2016

alexoiu :

I don't know if it was because I updated the BIOS but it works now although it is the same Version lol.

Le Snerk · Jul 6, 2016

bgunner :

Your answer was also helpful as I have seen on other posts success from your solution. I wish I could put both as a helpful solution

bgunner · Jul 6, 2016

and suddenly you have issues with the ram?

well in that case I must agree with ahnilated and ask you to please test each stick individually with memtest86+ to ensure all sticks are still functioning properly.

alexoiu · Jul 6, 2016

Thank you for the feedback.

bgunner · Jul 6, 2016

Le Snerk :

good to hear it. But please some night run Memtest86+ to ensure there is not a hidden issue. For ram to suddenly give issues means something changed, BIOS setting, Voltage, you moved the case to another spot, the ram is unstable ect. the only way to know your PC is now stable is test with the proper programs.

Hope this helps.

Le Snerk · Jul 6, 2016

Since both the RAM sticks now work could I keep both in the system while I run Memtest? Or do I have to only have 1 in for each test?

My computer won't POST with both of my RAM sticks but they work individually

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