The issue with my RAM caused a problem with my computer.
The issue with my RAM caused a problem with my computer.
I received the new 8GB RAM at 2666MHz with the same voltage and speed. I installed it but the system didn’t recognize it in BIOS. I moved the RAM slots and changed the slot, but it still didn’t work. After that, I tried my old RAM again—it didn’t function either. When I restarted the PC, fans and lights activated but there was no video output, so I couldn’t access BIOS. Eventually, I bought a 16GB stick from Best Buy and got the same issue. Should I replace my motherboard or is there a solution?
Disconnect the computer, take out the CMOS battery, then press the power button several times, replace the CMOS, reinsert the battery, and turn the PC on.
Check out the TUF B360M Plus gaming motherboard from ASUS. You can also find similar options on Newegg Business.
Just because sticks share the same voltage and power rating doesn't guarantee they'll perform well together. Various models come with distinct settings or timing configurations, which are typically set as defaults for each configuration. Ideally, it's best to use identical sticks within a system. Here are some examples—always check the specifications for each set: G.SKILL Trident Z Royal Series 16GB (2 x 8GB) 288-Pin DDR4 SDRAM DDR4 3600 (PC4 28800) Desktop Memory Model F4-3600C18D-16GTRS - Newegg.com; G.SKILL TridentZ Series 16GB (2 x 8GB) 288-Pin DDR4 SDRAM DDR4 3600 (PC4 28800) Intel Z170 / Z270 / Z370 / X299 Desktop Memory Model F4-3600C16D-16GTZSW - Newegg.com; G.SKILL TridentZ Series 16GB (2 x 8GB) 288-Pin DDR4 SDRAM DDR4 3600 (PC4 28800) Intel Z170 / Z270 / Z370 / X299 Desktop Memory Model F4-3600C17D-16GTZSW - Newegg.com. Keep in mind, although these sticks match in speed and voltage, their timing specs differ. Some use different integrated circuits, which significantly impacts performance. Certain ICs allow tighter timing with the same speeds and voltages, while others don't. It's wise to match them all precisely to minimize problems like the ones you're experiencing, and I suspect this is why mixing different sets is problematic.
I resolved the issue and purchased two 8GB packs, but the one in the second slot isn't functioning.
Just wanted to confirm your understanding. If I were you, eliminate all sticks except one and check functionality. As you test, remove the single stick and swap it with another until you've tried all available slots. If a particular stick causes issues, test it in another slot and continue through the entire RAM array. If problems persist across all slots, consider an RMA replacement. Ensure you match the serial numbers so it's the same package from the box—request both when initiating the return. They should send you a replacement. Hopefully, this resolves it. If everything fails in the same slot, it may indicate a hardware issue that can be fixed if still under warranty. I also noticed you didn't specify system details—if it's an Intel model, there might be a misaligned pin in the CPU socket, which I've encountered before.
It seems the issue is likely with the board. I purchased the Vengeance recently and checked both in every slot, but only slot 1 works. I didn’t assemble the PC myself—I just upgraded the GPU using an IBUYPOWER card. The components are an i5-8400, TUF-B360M Plus S, MSI RTX 2080 Tri-Fan, Corsair Vengeance RAM 2x8 at 2400MHz, and a 600W EVGA power supply.