Windows 7: BSOD/Resetting when adding 2nd stick of RAM or graphics card.

-Windows 7 Pro x64
-Brand new install from Microsoft.com
-Full retail version

-All hardware is brand new
-Reinstalled the OS today.

Brand new build - I can get into Windows with only 1 stick of RAM installed and no Graphics Card (other than the on-board video card).
-Windows is updated and verified.
-Installed drivers for LAN and USB3.0.
-If I add the second stick of RAM or try and add (1 of 2) graphics cards then I get a quick BSOD flash as "Starting Windows" begins to complete the windows logo. Removing either of these items allows me to get back in with no problems.



Looking forward to hearing from you guys about this. I'm completely new to building and excited about trying this puppy out soon.

Thanks in advance!

No DMP files included in upload. Please try this method.

We do need the DMP file as it contains the only record of the sequence of events leading up to the crash, what drivers were loaded, and what was responsible.

You may be able to get the DMP files without crashing by booting into safe mode (F8) with networking.

To enable us to assist you with your computer's BSOD symptoms, upload the contents of your "\Windows\Minidump" folder.

The procedure:

* Copy the contents of \Windows\Minidump to another (temporary) location somewhere on your machine.
* Zip up the copy.
* Attach the ZIP archive to your post using the "paperclip" (file attachments) button.
*If the files are too large please upload them to a file sharing service like "Rapidshare" and put a link to them in your reply.


To ensure minidumps are enabled:

* Go to Start, in the Search Box type: sysdm.cpl, press Enter.
* Under the Advanced tab, click on the Startup and Recovery Settings... button.
* Ensure that Automatically restart is unchecked.
* Under the Write Debugging Information header select Small memory dump (256 kB) in the dropdown box (the 256kb varies).
* Ensure that the Small Dump Directory is listed as %systemroot%\Minidump.
* OK your way out.
* Reboot if changes have been made.

Is this the correct motherboard?
ASUSTeK Computer Inc. - Motherboards- ASUS M5A88-V EVO
if so there are bios updates the first for memory issues and the second addresses a number of other problems. . If I got the wrong one sorry asus's website was being a bit strange with me today.

Yes that's the one, do I need to download each individually? Also I was having a similar issue with another brand new motherboard of a different brand.

motherboard bios and ssd firmware are two things I suggest looking at with any new build.
It's also possible one of those memory sticks is bad, you haven't said anything about swapping them around.
I would update the bios specifically because the first fix is memory related.

...and bios updates are inclusive, you should only need the most recent one.

I've swapped the ram and tried it in different slots, I also tried a completely different set of RAM and I could still only get it to run with 1.

I am pretty confused because I have tried 2 different mobos, 2 sets of RAM, 2 PSU's, 2 graphics cards. The only thing I haven't tried differently is the processor, CPU cooler.

-I will upload the DUMP file when I get home.
-I will also update the BIOS when I get home.

Is this the correct update?
M5A88-V EVO BIOS 0707 date: 2011.08.18 update

looks like the BIOS was already updated, but I ran it again.

I've followed the directions and double checked, I'm in SAFE mode now and the Minidump folder is not there. I also purposely made my computer crash.

Delete - last comment

I'm still in the same boat and unable to find the minidump file even after a crash. Anymore info on this?