Did I purchase faulty RAM?

shadyeversince

Reputable
May 30, 2015
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To start things off, here's my build:

OS - Windows 10 Home 64-bit
CPU - Intel Core i5 650 @ 3.20GHz
MOBO - Acer Aspire M5910 running BIOS Ver. AMI P01-A4
GPU - NVIDIA GeForce GTX 660 Ti
HDD - 1397GB Western Digital WDC WD15EADS-22P8B0 (SATA)

Now here's where the problem comes in:
Installed, I have a Kingston kvr1333d3n9/4g (DDR3 4GB 1333MHz)
I couldn't find another stick like this one on sale, however I did find one that is seemingly the same thing:
A Kingston kvr13n9s8/4 (DDR3 4GB 1333MHz as well)

The issue is, no matter what slot I use, the new stick just won't work (just by itself or with the old one in). The computer crashes right after post, as soon as the Windows logo shows up.
I've tried running Memtest, but it crashes as soon as it starts testing, and computer reboots.
I've updated my BIOS to the most recent version I could find. I also tried resetting it (removing CMOS battery), but nada.
Looking at Kingston's page, both RAM sticks are exactly the same, except for the fact on is 1Rx8 and the other is 2Rx8.

Am I missing something?
Thanks in advance.
 
Hi,
If it crash when the stick is alone most likely it is problematic.
The best thing to do would be download testmem86, burn it to disk, boot with the stick in and test.
If you get errors, report to the seller and rma it.

For memory, you have to consider the voltage and the timing (CAS)
They need same specs and be compatible with mobo
You can go to manufacturer's website to see what memory is compatible.
 


Thank you for your reply. As stated above, I've tried to test the stick with memtest, but the computer crashes as soon as I run a test.
I've also checked Kingston's website, and both sticks are an exact match except for the fact that one is built with 1Rx8 and the other is built with 2Rx8.
 
Okay, quick update. Tried looking in BIOS for RAM settings (like XMP) but no dice.
Might take the stick back to the shop tomorrow, ask them if they can test it there.
Either way, any other suggestions would be appreciated.
 
Memory is guaranteed in the form it is sold in. Memory that is sold in separate packages are not guaranteed to work when combined.

Adding extra memory, regardless of brand or model number, adds additional stress to the memory controller. As a result the original memory may no longer be able to operate at rated specifications and/or the PC may not boot.

Using memory in combinations that have never been tested together carry no guarantee to work. If you prefer "do it yourself" compatibility testing and "trial and error" testing then using memory with the same part number may have a better chance of working than using random modules.
 
Regarding the reply above (I can't seem to quote it for some reason):
The issue is not the fact that the stick of RAM doesn't work mixed with an older model, it's the fact the stick doesn't work at all, by itself, out of the box.