Is there a RAM problem or a motherboard issue?
Is there a RAM problem or a motherboard issue?
Experiencing problems with a setup where one stick of RAM isn't being detected, occasionally. This system has been operational for several years without this concern until recently. Last week, a new GPU (AMD Radeon RX 6750 XT) was added, and since then the RAM issue started. It seems unrelated to the GPU itself, more like a strange coincidence.
Details of the problem:
Following the installation of the new GPU, I booted the system to try some games. When running one, the computer froze completely and needed a hard reset. Restarting caused the motherboard to emit a three-long beep sequence. Checking the BIOS revealed it was detecting two RAM sticks, confirming that a Corsair stick was present in both slots—correct. However, it indicated only 8 of the 16GB were being used. After exiting BIOS and opening Task Manager, the same issue persisted, showing half the RAM active. We tried to reproduce the problem successfully this time; however, after the beep code it would not boot at all, instead looping through beeps and failing to start.
We concluded the issue was likely due to RAM and decided to replace it with new 32GB units, as our other PC uses DDR3. After installation, BIOS recognized all 32GB. When launching a game, after about three minutes the system froze again, required a restart, the beep codes returned, and BIOS displayed only 16GB.
It now appears random whether the system will show full RAM or just half upon startup.
Additional observations:
- The computer would also freeze during gameplay, especially when using Chrome. This seems resolved after upgrading to new RAM.
- The MSI EZ Debug lights appear on initial boot but turn off quickly; no debug indicators are visible while the system runs.
- Testing in Cinebench and UNINGINE's Heaven showed normal performance—CPU and GPU cleared without issues, temperatures remained stable.
- We reinserted both RAM modules multiple times, cleared CMOS, and still faced recognition problems until a crash occurred.
- The day after this issue began, the PC ran a game for about five hours without problems (using the old 16GB RAM). After roughly five hours it crashed permanently and has not booted since.
- The operating system version is outdated, warning that "Your version of Windows has reached the end of service." This seems unrelated to our current concerns.
We're seeking advice on whether the motherboard, RAM, or another component is at fault. Any guidance or suggestions for troubleshooting would be greatly appreciated.
Other factors can greatly affect RAM stability, particularly for 1st gen Ryzen CPUs. The first step is to upgrade the BIOS to the most recent version if necessary. This might alter the BIOS interface on your MSI B350 board, but it remains fully featured and will provide optimal memory performance and PCIe support, such as enabling resizable BAR for new GPUs. The second step is to reset the CMOS; do this even after updating the BIOS if required.
The connection doesn't lead to the Ryzen 1000 series, as that's the site's standard process... however, you can simply tap on the Ryzen 1000 series option and check it out.
Understood, I see what you meant now, you're right. I was misinterpreting the list.