BSOD because of RAM

[krneki]

I have a computer with following specifications:
MSI A8N Neo4
Athlon 3200+
3 GB RAM - 2x1GB CORSAIR VS1GB400C3 and 2x512MB GEIL GE1GB3200 BHDC

The problem is in BSOD for which I assume that they come from RAM, because minidump files point to random causes and NTOSKRNL is the one who always crashes.

I tested ram thoroughly with memtest86+, windows memory diagnostics, hci memtest and gold memory pro. All programs show up errors when all modules of RAM are inserted. Everything is fine when only GEIL RAM is inserted, so obviously CORSAIR causes problems. Memtest86+ once found an error with both sticks, but not when only one present. Same thing goes for HCI memtest. Gold memory pro finds problems with single module and when both modules are inserted at once (but it happened now twice that it didn't detect any errors after BIOS reset, so that's very strange).

Anyway, I tried with several different settings for RAM in BIOS, but without any outcome difference. Perhaps I didn't hit the proper settings, so I'm asking you to help me out with any useful ideas.

Here is BIOS menu for RAM: http://shrani.si/f/C/Sa/2iMVIO8s/img3443.jpg

 

[jaquith]

Don't mix-match RAM especially SS and DS RAM. Try the 1GB by itself and no 2x512MB sticks.

Refer to manual - http://www.msi.com/service/download/manual-4370.html

page 2-8
"MSI Reminds You...
- Dual-channel DDR works ONLY in the 3 combinations listed in
the table as below.
- Please select the identical memory modules to install on the dual
channel, and DO NOT install three memory modules on three
DIMMs, or it may cause some failure.
- Always insert the memory modules into the GREEN slots first, and
it is strongly recommended not to insert the memory modules into
the PURPLE slots while the GREEN slots are left empty.
- This mainboard DO NOT support the memory module installed
with more than 18 pieces of IC (integrated circuit).

 

[krneki]

That's interesting, I really didn't know that.

Again, with only CORSAIR:
1 stick - only Gold Memory test finds problems, no matter which stick I use
2 sticks - Gold Memory and HCI memtest find problems

 

[jaquith]

^What Sticks and What DIMM Slots. Sure the Corsair could be bad/damaged. However it does carry a Lifetime Warranty - http://www.corsair.com/vs1gb400c3.html/

The only (2) slots with the Corsair by itself:

CPU: | 1GB | Blank | Blank | Blank |
or
CPU: | Blank | Blank | 1GB | Blank |

Next, with just the Corsair Clear CMOS. Unplug the PSU for 5 minutes then using the Jumper method watch this video -> http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rdHH9KrceR0

Then boot into the BIOS and select Load Optimized Defaults and Save = Yes.

I only test RAM using a bootable CD/DVD of Memtest86+, download the (.ISO) file and burn the CD/DVD media and boot from your CD/DVD drive. Memtest86+ - http://www.memtest.org/#downiso

 

[krneki]

CPU-z with problematic CORSAIR RAM: http://shrani.si/f/3e/wx/2NdeLukR/cpu-z.jpg

Voltage was set on 2.65 V all the time, I changed it now to 2.50 and again, no difference.

 

[pjmelect]

Some memory is simply incompatible to a particular motherboard no matter what settings you try, which is why you should chose memory that is listed by the motherboards manufacture as being compatible eith their motherboard.