New
#21
The Answer?
I think I figured out the problem.
I'm using G Skill DDR2 1066 RAM (4x2Gb). If you look at the "Memory" and the "SPD" tabs on CPU-Z, you can see the problem:
Attachment 12158
Attachment 12159
The RAM is running at a lower rating (800 Mhz) because it is getting 1.8 volts. I think the RAM needs to get 2.0 - 2.1 volts to run at its designed speed... could it be unstable at lower voltages?
I rechecked the NewEgg page for this RAM, Newegg.com - G.SKILL 4GB (2 x 2GB) 240-Pin DDR2 SDRAM DDR2 1066 (PC2 8500) Dual Channel Kit Desktop Memory - Desktop Memory, and noticed that my mb's northbridge chip (Intel P45) isn't listed under the RAMs features. Perhaps I need to raise the voltage to the design specs for the RAM to get stability... or perhaps this RAM just can't be truly stable on this mb?
(Note: It doesn't say "Only use this RAM with these northbridges...", it just lists a few chipsets under the "specs" tab.)
Edit: I no longer think this is the cause of the BSOD. The RAM is just running at a lower speed due to the lower voltage. It seems to be stable at 1.8 volts.
Last edited by stevieray; 27 May 2009 at 18:35. Reason: updated opinion