It's undoubtedly hardware. First reseat (remove and reinstall) both memory modules. If that doesn't fix it, run the Dell diagnostics - if one module fails,swap it to the other socket. If the same module fails in the other socket, call for replacement of the memory module. If the same socket shows a failure with both modules, call for replacement of the system board under warranty.
F12 at powerup will get you into the Dell diagnostics.
Thanks for the advice. I am fairly certain the memory is inside the laptop, so how would remove and reinstall? Do i need to unscrew the bottom and manually remove?
:^/ I can't say for your model, but for my XPS M1210 there is a cover plate on the bottom for one memory module, and the other is on the other side, beneath my keyboard. And yes, replacing memory requires unscrewing. If you're squeamish about opening electronics up, get a trusted friend to do it for you. Or, if you buy replacement memory from a shop, they should be able to do it, too. Some shops may be willing to test it for you free, on the off chance that you'll buy from them if needed, and to establish a good relationship with a potential future customer.
ejn63
9 Legend
•
87.5K Posts
0
November 3rd, 2009 18:00
It's undoubtedly hardware. First reseat (remove and reinstall) both memory modules. If that doesn't fix it, run the Dell diagnostics - if one module fails,swap it to the other socket. If the same module fails in the other socket, call for replacement of the memory module. If the same socket shows a failure with both modules, call for replacement of the system board under warranty.
F12 at powerup will get you into the Dell diagnostics.
Westbo10
2 Posts
0
November 3rd, 2009 19:00
Thanks for the advice. I am fairly certain the memory is inside the laptop, so how would remove and reinstall? Do i need to unscrew the bottom and manually remove?
Mr._Pseudonym
2 Intern
•
315 Posts
0
November 4th, 2009 04:00
:^/ I can't say for your model, but for my XPS M1210 there is a cover plate on the bottom for one memory module, and the other is on the other side, beneath my keyboard. And yes, replacing memory requires unscrewing. If you're squeamish about opening electronics up, get a trusted friend to do it for you. Or, if you buy replacement memory from a shop, they should be able to do it, too. Some shops may be willing to test it for you free, on the off chance that you'll buy from them if needed, and to establish a good relationship with a potential future customer.