[SOLVED] [help] Burnt RAM pin, then fixed with a pencil eraser?

[P1lgimag3]

I was cleaning dusts out of my pc the other day, after it’s done, boot loop happened, then I replug the Ram and the bootloop stop, but it shows no display.. then there is this burnt smell, i forget it happened before or after i replug the RAM. I bring it to the shop and they say the warranty is void because one of the pin is burnt..

And there’s this tech guy, removing the burn marks on the pin with a pencil eraser, now my pc runs like normal, both of the RAM is detected.. its like nothing happened..

Is this okay though? Will one of this burnt RAM pin endangered the other hardwares? Should i take a safety precaution by removing the damaged RAM and just use the undamaged one? Pls kindly help with a simple words..

 

[Ralston18]

How were you cleaning out the dust?

Was the computer powered on?

As I understand your description there was likely some spark and that spark created a carbon build up on the pin(s) in question.

The tech guy simply cleaned off the carbon, contact was restored, and all appears well.

And hopefully will remain so.

However, once damaged or shocked any component is likely to be a bit more vulnerable. Another shock or other issue could bring about a sudden EOL (End of Life) lto that component.

In your case perhaps the RAM module. Could be elsewhere especially if the spark was strong enough to cause other damage - likely to be unseen.

Develop the habit of frequent backups and then, if something does suddenly go wrong, your data will at least be safe.

Pay attention to any future error codes, pop-up windows, or other unexplained system behavior. Such things are likely a warning.

Just my thoughts on the matter.

There may be other suggestions, comments, and ideas.

 

[P1lgimag3]

How were you cleaning out the dust?

Was the computer powered on?

As I understand your description there was likely some spark and that spark created a carbon build up on the pin(s) in question.

The tech guy simply cleaned off the carbon, contact was restored, and all appears well.

And hopefully will remain so.

However, once damaged or shocked any component is likely to be a bit more vulnerable. Another shock or other issue could bring about a sudden EOL (End of Life) lto that component.

In your case perhaps the RAM module. Could be elsewhere especially if the spark was strong enough to cause other damage - likely to be unseen.

Develop the habit of frequent backups and then, if something does suddenly go wrong, your data will at least be safe.

Pay attention to any future error codes, pop-up windows, or other unexplained system behavior. Such things are likely a warning.

Just my thoughts on the matter.

There may be other suggestions, comments, and ideas.

i was cleaning it unplugged from electricity, i used my slightly damp hands, brushes and with tissues.. idk if the damp brushes do anything to it, as far as i can remember, i don't even touch the RAM.. And from what i can recall, i think i did not plug the RAM perfectly, and that's when the burnt smell came in..

"Another shock or other issue could bring about a sudden EOL (End of Life) lto that component."
what things can cause this kind of shock? Electricity shut down often happens here in my country.. will this trigger the shock?

Man i really appreciate your reply..

 

[Ralston18]

Sudden power losses are more likely to cause file corruption and data loss. Both of which can cause subsequent startup problems or other system problems.

Power surges - the power suddenly coming back, if sudden and serious enough, could cause sparks. But that would most likely get lots of immediate attention as circuit breakers pop, lights flash and dim, etc..

That is why many folks, myself included, unplug our devices during storms or other times of power problems or potential power problems. Utility trucks on the street for example.

=============

My thought is that somewhere a bit of moisture collected and there was a minor short - the RAM socket most likely.

Use canned air for future cleanings and follow all directions very carefully.

And if at all possible consider a surge protector or even a USP to gain some additional protection with respect to the electricity shutdowns.

Research (Google) "tutorial surge protection and ups" for more information.

 

[lynx1021]

Never use anything wet in cleaning your computer! If the ram wasn't plugged in perfectly it could have caused a small arc like Ralston18 said leaving a carbon deposit said and cleaning it fixed it. You should invest in a UPS system, It doesn't have to be a real expensive one unless you intend to keep it running during power outages,LOL! I have mine set to shut down my computers normally if the power is out for more than 1 min. That way if I am not here when the power goes out they won't crash and corrupt my files.