Optiplex 3060 MFF 8GB expansion error message

Question

Hi Community,

I have an Optiplex 3060 MFF with 8GB memory (as purchased from Dell).

I recently purchased an 8GB memory module from Dell to upgrade to 16GB.

Once installed I got the 2-7 POST amber light sequence.

I have spoken with Dell technical support, it was diagnosed as a faulty memory module and a refurbished replacement was sent to me. It also failed.

I have purchased a third memory module and it too gets the 2-7 POST amber light sequence.

I'm unable to tell if the memory modules are at fault or my desktop.

Any and all recommendations welcome.

Thanks so much, Doug

bradthetechnut · Answer

Try purchased RAM in 1st slot. Then try other RAM stick in 2nd slot.

A little more rare, but it is possible the 2nd DIMM slot is bad.

Also, if it still doesn't work, could you upload a clear (clear enough for text to show) of both RAM sticks?

vroomado · Answer

Brilliant! Thanks! I think the problem is clearer now.

The story thus far:

1. I bought a Gigastone memory module on Amazon and plugged it into slot 2. 2-7 amber lights.

2. I bought a memory module from Dell and plugged it into slot 2. Amber lights.

3. I called Dell tech support. They recommend I try the (Dell) memory module in slot 1. Amber lights.

4. I spent several hours on the phone with Dell over several days, and yesterday received a refurbished memory module and plugged it into slot 2. Amber lights. I haven't tried it in slot 1 and don't plan to.

5. Today after reading your post I removed the memory module that came with the 3060, and plugged the Gigastone memory module into slot 1. It works! I am using my 3060 with Gigastone module in slot 1 as I write this post.

6. I did try the memory module that came with the 3060 in slot 2, and 2-7 amber lights.

Given the troubleshooting I did with Dell Tech support and just now, I am very inclined to believe that the problem maybe two-fold: slot 2 is very likely bad, and, the memory modules from Dell are likely bad.

My options at this point, include:

1) sticking with the 8G in slot 1

2) buying a 16G module for slot 1

3) buying a new desktop computer. I really don't have the confidence that Dell will replace the desktop.

I'm thinking to just return the replacement parts to Dell and close the book on this.

As a note, prior to this beginning nearly 2 weeks ago, Dell reminded me my warranty was about to expire, and gave me the option to request a quote to extend it. I took the option but did not receive a quote, and so my warranty has expired.

I have an email from Dell-Cares saying they didn't receive my Service Tag. Is it normal practice to publish service tags on this forum?

Thanks again, vroomado.

bradthetechnut · Answer

You're welcome. : )

Nope, no posting service tags publicly. If you want to answer @DELL-Cares, tap on the link. Scroll down to "Contact." You should then be able to Private Message (PM) them.

Sorry warranty expired. Otherwise, I was going to suggest PC replacement.

Sometimes Dell's won't tolerate mixed brand RAM. But that doesn't explain the Dell RAM not working.

When I asked for an upload before, I forgot to say "photo." Oh well.

Optiplex Desktops

Optiplex 3060 MFF 8GB expansion error message

Was this post helpful?