We all agree that RAM is an essential part of any computer device, whether it’s a PC or a laptop, as it performs a vital function. We have previously reviewed how RAM works and how it stores data. Unlike the processor and hard disk, RAM is one of the easiest components to upgrade, install, and choose. Therefore, problems rarely occur when upgrading RAM alongside the known issues with RAM. However, you may encounter a strange issue where, after purchasing and installing RAM on the motherboard of the device, you find that the computer does not recognize this new component within the hardware components! This can be attributed to several reasons, which I will discuss in this article in an attempt to solve the problem.
– Verify Proper Installation of RAM on the Socket
Installing RAM is very easy as mentioned, but for new users who do not have enough experience in dealing with computer components, it may have been difficult to install RAM under their supervision. Perhaps the RAM was not properly installed in the socket on the motherboard, where one of the RAM pins was not connected to the port, or the socket clip did not secure the RAM on the motherboard, all of which ultimately lead to the computer not recognizing the newly added RAM as part of the computer components. Therefore, try opening the computer and checking the RAM installation properly. I suggest you refer to the following articles to learn the correct way:
– Installing Additional RAM for Laptop and Information to Know Before Buying RAM
– How to Assemble and Install a Computer Case in Just Five Steps
– Check RAM Compatibility
Some users, when buying new RAM, base their purchase on the size they want, such as 2 or 4 GB. However, in reality, there is other information that they should be aware of besides the size. There are many different types of RAM, which make it necessary before buying RAM to inquire about the suitable RAM for the motherboard. Not all motherboards support all types of RAM, and you must include specific details for this RAM to work properly on the motherboard used in your computer. For example, each motherboard supports a maximum RAM size, which is what prompted us to prepare an article on how to determine the amount of RAM supported by the motherboard in your computer.
There is also information like frequency, class, type, whether DDR3 or DDR4, and other information that the motherboard requires to operate a new RAM on it. To find out this information, all you have to do is to know the type and model number of the motherboard and then enter them in a Google search engine. Among the search results, you will find the official website of the motherboard manufacturer. Go to the “Specifications” section where you will find all the motherboard specifications, including the RAM installation requirements for this motherboard.
– Clean the Socket and RAM Properly
The accumulation of dust and dirt on the socket may also be the reason that the RAM pins are not able to connect to the motherboard to be recognized and work. Or perhaps the dust buildup has prevented the RAM from fitting completely into the socket, which is another reason for the failure of the RAM to connect to the motherboard. Therefore, check the cleanliness of the RAM socket properly and clean it with a cloth dampened with alcohol. Also, clean the RAM properly and make sure that all the connection pins are in good condition and there are no torn pins that may prevent the RAM from working properly.
– Test the RAM
If you have tried the above steps and the computer still does not recognize the RAM, there may be a software error or issue in the RAM that led to this problem. Therefore, you should test it to discover any errors and determine whether it is time to replace it using programs that perform this task, for example, you can test and repair RAM problems using a Hiren’s Boot CD or using the built-in program in the Windows system, which scans the RAM and performs tests to ensure that it is free from any problems hindering its use.
– Change the Way RAM is Installed
For example, if your computer’s motherboard has 4 RAM slots and you are using two chips, therefore using only 2 slots, if you encounter a problem of the computer not recognizing the new RAM and you are using this system for installation, perhaps it’s time to change this system. In other words, install each chip on a different empty slot to verify that there are no faulty slots that, when installing the RAM, prevent it from connecting to the motherboard. Or instead, try this RAM chip on another computer. If it works, the problem may be with the computer or vice versa.
