Are there multiple BSODs indicating a hardware RAM/Motherboard problem?
Are there multiple BSODs indicating a hardware RAM/Motherboard problem?
It has been a while since I've shared updates here, yet I'm pleased to see everyone thriving. My previous computer finally shut down in January, as it was scheduled for replacement anyway and I aimed to upgrade. This machine was assembled quickly because it also needed to support my business tasks. During setup, I encountered POST problems that seemed linked to the RAM module. I initially tried various RAM types, planning a 2 or 4 stick configuration, but now I'm stuck with a single 16GB stick since other combinations didn't trigger immediate issues. After resolving the RAM concerns, I noticed persistent BSODs—especially for ntoskrnl.exe, MEMORY_MANAGEMENT, page fault, and dxgmms2.sys. The system would crash repeatedly, sometimes requiring a full restart without a blue screen. Recently, I've slowed down my usage to investigate further and hopefully find a solution.
I can reproduce the BSOD consistently whenever the PC is left idle for hours. It feels like a recurring problem: after entering my pin and starting the day, the screen turns black and the machine restarts. This happens occasionally but often enough to notice a pattern. I now restart the computer as soon as I see it the next day in hopes of avoiding another crash. The black-screen restarts are rare, though they can occur during more demanding games or when certain events errors appear.
I've tried running Windows Event Viewer to check for software or hardware faults. It might point to a RAM or OS issue. I updated my motherboard BIOS to version 9.11 a few weeks prior, and the Windows update was current. No driver issues were found in Device Manager. My ASRock Z790 Pro RS WiFi board has been through several POST troubleshooting reports, so I'm cautious about assuming it's the problem before considering hardware or software fixes.
Details to note:
- Build Info: Microsoft Windows 11 Home, version 10.0.22631, BIOS 9.11
- System: ASRock Z790 Pro RS WiFi, x64-based PC
- RAM: Initially multiple sticks planned, now only 16GB due to compatibility concerns
- Recent troubleshooting: Checked BIOS, updated drivers, verified hardware stability
- Event logs: Showed recurring crashes under specific conditions
I'm at a crossroads—whether to dig deeper into software settings or proceed with hardware changes.
Three aspects immediately come to mind after reviewing your dumps...
These dumps clearly show signs of faulty RAM. Notably, three of them are connected to memory issues...
Makes sense. I changed between three different RAM brands during setup because it wasn't posting. None of them are listed on the QVL, which might be part of the problem. It seems to have stabilized on A1 since I posted with a single stick, and I'll address the BSODs later. I'll get some QVL RAM this weekend and share the outcome next week. Thanks.
Alright, I spent some extra time experimenting. I used the CMH32GX5M2B5600C40 stick. It’s causing the DRAM post light to flash on every slot except A1. When I insert it into A1, the light turns on and then cycles before booting normally.
I also bought the CMT32GX5M2B5600C36, which is listed for testing. It shows the same problems. I tried using dual sticks in A2, B2 and A1,B1 just to check the situation. When both were connected, the DRAM post light activated and my fans began to flicker and speed up abruptly, as if they were experiencing power spikes.
With a single stick of the new CMT32GX5M2B5600C36 in slot A1, I can run the system without issues. The current BIOS version 9.1 should handle both sticks. With one fan, there are no flickering problems. These sticks also have RGB lighting, which might help if any surges occur.
The issue seems to have started when everything was assembled quickly. The Z790 boards appear prone to post errors and RAM problems. I’m wondering if this is more related to hardware faults?
We'll check with anyone in hardware for advice before attempting the RMA.