Tell me more ×
Super User is a question and answer site for computer enthusiasts and power users. It's 100% free, no registration required.
up vote 2 down vote favorite

I have a hardware problem and hope this is the right place. I wanted to add some RAM and I got two kingston 2 GB sticks that I want to install, however, when I seat them and boot up the system I get 3 beeps (which indicates a memory error).

My motherboard is an Intel DP45SG, and the RAM I got is Kingston KVR1333D3S8N9/2G and as far as I can see they should be compatible.

I have 4 GB on my computer already (don't know what make) but I also tried installing the new sticks without the old ones so it's not compatibility issue with the old RAM...

Already tried to update BIOS and took out the CMOS battery to reset to default settings, didn't help. Also tried moving slots.

Does anyone have an idea what could be the problem?

share|improve this question

3 Answers

up vote 2 down vote accepted

Sounds like of of your RAM modules is defective. Try them one by one to find out which is the culprit.

If one works without the other, you will have to return the module.

share|improve this answer
I already exchanged them at the store so I don't think the new RAM is faulty. The old ones also work when I don't put in the new ones so they are not faulty. only when I put in the new RAM (tried one at a time, and tried without the old RAM) I get the error... – Lisa Sher Dec 21 '11 at 13:55
What are the specifications of the old RAM modules? – Dennis Dec 21 '11 at 14:01
They are Transcend DDR3 1333 Mhz 2GB each – Lisa Sher Dec 21 '11 at 14:33
Aside from all the new RAM modules being defective, I cannot think of anything else... – Dennis Dec 21 '11 at 14:42
But do you think it's possible I got 2 sets of faulty modules? He even gave me the second set from a different pack – Lisa Sher Dec 21 '11 at 14:44
show 2 more comments
up vote 2 down vote

My friend, I have the same problem and I found the solution.

There are two kinds of RAM that look the same but if you look closely you will see the differences between them.

One of them is Kingston KVR1333D3S8N9/2G

The other is Kingston KVR1333D3N9/2G

If you compare them first one it has an "S8" in it

KVR1333D3N9/2G 2GB 2Rx8 256M x 64-Bit PC3-10600 CL9 240-Pin DIMM

KVR1333D3S8N9/2G 2GB 1Rx8 256M x 64-Bit PC3-10600 CL9 240-Pin DIMM

Be careful! The new RAM's barcode must be the same as old one.

I have detected it now and I am going to change it in a few hours.

share|improve this answer
up vote 1 down vote

There may be some other incompatibility that isn't apparent. Your motherboard is not listed on the Kingston website as being compatible with the memory you have purchased. That doesn't necessarily mean it won't work, but Kingston doesn't officially support it for that board.

What they do recommend for you board is the KVR1333D3S8N9H/2G. Not sure the difference between that model and the one you bought, though.

share|improve this answer
Wasn't aware of that. thanks! – Lisa Sher Dec 21 '11 at 15:42

Your Answer

 
discard

By posting your answer, you agree to the privacy policy and terms of service.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.