Unusual memory problem Random data loss observed System behavior inconsistent
Unusual memory problem Random data loss observed System behavior inconsistent
I have an old MSI Z270 Tomahawk board on a machine (the specs are all worn out) that I'm running as a server. Today I decided to replace the RAM and ran into this strange problem. The board has four DIMM slots; the previous memory was two 8GB G.SKILL Ripjaws V 3200MHz units, and the new upgrade is four 16GB Crucial Pro 3200MHz sticks. The issue I'm encountering is that the PC won't power on (the EZ Debug light keeps toggling between CPU and RAM states, I've tried clearing CMOS but can't even reach BIOS). It only works in certain odd configurations. I thought the new sticks were faulty until the weird part happened when I tried: X X G C – Boot and RAM appear in BIOS X C G C – No boot C X C X – No boot C C C C – No boot C X X X – No boot X C X X – No boot X X X C – No boot. So I assumed the Crucial sticks were bad, but then the odd sequence occurred. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
If your system fails to start with essential RAM, it suggests the RAM might be faulty. Attempt using Crucial RAM and G.Skill, then perform a memory test.
I searched online but didn’t find any confirmation. Corsair mentions possible density options like x8 or x16. Another idea is that the 3200 JEDEC modules might not have been available when your motherboard was released, which could cause it to misinterpret the SPD data and fail. This explanation fits because you’d need a G.Skill module in certain slots for the board to recognize the information and boot. You’re likely right that those modules can have multiple profiles in their SPD table—probably including 2400 as well.
You should run three passes. The initial mention of G.SKILL likely refers to a specific setup or version, and there’s no workaround mentioned. To verify, check the current configuration settings.
Execute the test repeatedly to verify every RAM component. I also checked and found that disabling XMP can be helpful. Some users report success with a 3200MHz configuration.