In this post, I will teach you how to fix memory slot failure. Is your computer or laptop not running, displaying a black screen, or creating a beeping sound? Let’s fix the RAM slot problem.

Causes of RAM Slot Failure

There are many reasons behind RAM slot failure, and finding the exact cause can be a bit tough. Here are the most common causes:

  • Physical Damage
  • Dust in the RAM Slot
  • RAM Not Seated Properly

Note: The most common reason for RAM slot failure is the RAM not being seated properly.

How to Fix Physical Damage to a RAM Slot

Physical damage to a memory slot is rare because memory slots are not usually damaged easily. Physical damage typically means the inner pin of the RAM slot is shorted, or the RAM slot band is broken. Sometimes, the RAM slot is fine but the RAM itself is damaged or not in working condition.

In such a situation, you should:

  1. Use new RAM or clean the RAM with an eraser (always use a new eraser for this). This works in most cases.
  2. If the slot is 100% physically damaged, you need to remove the slot from the motherboard and install a new RAM slot/memory slot.

How to Fix a RAM Slot by Cleaning Dust

clean ram by eraser

This is a common problem faced by most users when the motherboard gets 2 to 3 years old and hasn’t been cleaned in many years. This is why I always recommend keeping your computer and laptop clean.

  1. Clean your RAM with an eraser. Always use a new eraser because dust can prevent the RAM’s golden pins from working properly.
  2. Clean the RAM slot on the motherboard to remove any accumulated dust.

How to Fix a RAM Slot by Adjusting the RAM

adjust ram in memory slot

Sometimes, the RAM slot may not work because the RAM is not properly seated. If your computer or laptop does not start or display, follow these steps:

  1. Ensure that the RAM is properly adjusted in the RAM slot.
  2. Reseat the RAM carefully to make sure it is fully inserted into the slot.

How to Check Computer RAM

After ensuring your RAM is working, the next thing you might want to know is how to check the RAM in your computer or laptop. The process varies slightly depending on the operating system you are using.

Check RAM on Windows

Windows 7 and Earlier

  1. Click Start, right-click Computer, and then click Properties.
  2. Under the System section, you can view the installed memory (RAM) value.

Windows 8 and Newer

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
  2. Select the Performance tab and click Memory. This will show you the total memory capacity, number of slots, form factor, speed, and usage.

Windows 10

  1. Click Start, type “About Your PC“, and press Enter.
  2. Navigate to Device Specifications and look for the line titled “Installed RAM”.

Check RAM on macOS Sonoma

  1. Click the Apple menu.
  2. Select About This Mac.
  3. Click the Memory tab to view your RAM information.