Error code 3-4 Ram error

Question

I got an Optiplex 755, and lately, I got an 8GB ram but after one week when I turned the pc on I notice that the pc is on but the screen off; however I tried to replug in the rams its worked but by taking away two rams out of 4, and I knows that 2 out of 4 ram plugin are working, so how can I fix this to use all rams plugins.
Many thanks

Yes, they all the same brand, but I think the ram reader or plugin place can't read site (4 and 2), but 1 and 3 can be read correctly, but the other (4 and 2) can't.

However, when 4 and 2 plugin reader are empty, the pc worked normally, but I want to use those ram's places

BadHacker17 · Answer

Yes, they all the same brand, but I think the ram reader or plugin place can't read site (4 and 2), but 1 and 3 can be read correctly, but the other (4 and 2) can't.

However, when 4 and 2 plugin reader are empty, the pc worked normally, but I want to use those ram's places

fireberd · Answer

In most cases the memory must be all the same brand and type for proper operation. Mixed memory and there are usually mixed (negative) results.

Here is the Crucial memory listing for this model.

https://www.crucial.com/usa/en/compatible-upgrade-for/Dell/optiplex-755-series-%28desktop-mini-tower-and-small-form-factor%29

fireberd · Answer

If those two slots are bad the only option is to replace the motherboard. But with the age of the PC (2007 era) I wouldn't spend any money on it. Buy a newer technology refurbished. These even come with Windows 10 installed.

Here is an inexpensive example:

https://www.amazon.com/Dell-Optiplex-7010-Processor-Professional/dp/B01LZLPO1H/ref=sr_1_3?crid=Q8S5K26DM678&keywords=refurbished+dell+desktop+computers+with+windows+10&qid=1572616804&sprefix=refurbished+de%2Caps%2C181&sr=8-3

donm4599x · Answer

@BadHacker17

First off, if the rams are kingston, they will definitely NOT work in any dell computer. Always use crucial or genuine dell branded memory. Sometimes other brands like hynix may work for a very short time, but always fail in Dells. Sometimes you can get lucky, but dells are _very very_ picky about memory brands.

But you may have simply gotten a bad ram module, or your motherboard may have failed.

donm4599x · Answer

Exactly. Any Dell, (and most others too) are pretty much disposable after two years. Their makers do not support them. The landfills are full of them.

Best strategy is definitely buy refurbs, and be prepared to throw it out. They spoil fast!

bradthetechnut · Answer

Hi @BadHacker17,

By any chance did you reinsert the RAM one at time, powering on in between? This can rule out the possibility of any bad sticks. I'm not quite sure if you tried it that way. Off course, remember to unplug power cord anytime working on the MB.

Do DIMM slots 2 & 4 still not work? One can also reaarange RAM and try again. Fireberd is right, if DIMM slots 2 & 4 aren't working, it's the MB.

One last ditch effort - It's regularly recommended to update BIOS before adding any new hardware. Dell Support Assist is a good place to do that.

I'm not sure where donm4599x gets that Dell's are disposable after 2 years. Optiplex's are business class machines that were meant to last and make great refurbs. My Optiplex's are from '08 & '11, though I keep my eye on the 9010's (2012, so I can't wait too long). The 7010 fireberd suggested is also from 2012, but they are slick machines.

Disclaimer - I can't speak for the current (downsized MT's for one) generation of Optiplex's.

fireberd · Answer

Regular Kingston memory will work in a Dell, however we have seen consistent problems over the years with the Kingston Value Ram (KVR) so avoid that.

Crucial is what we recommend for non-Dell branded memory as it is guaranteed to work in a Dell. As noted there are other brands but its hit or miss on these older model Dell's.

bradthetechnut · Answer

That's something I've mentioned before in another thread also.  I noticed people have had success with regular Kingston (or non-KVR) RAM.

Optiplex Desktops

Error code 3-4 Ram error

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