Random BSOD

mp1cass0: If you're thinking about memory - move up, it's best to do in pairs. If you have two open slots, you could drop in 2 more 4GB. I don't know how you use your computer, but 16 GB beats 8GB everyday. Is it necessary? If you do a lot of memory intensive processing, it helps. If you're happy with the performance, why shell out the money.

I don't think 4 2GB sticks are better than 2 4GB sticks. That just takes up your available slots and adds heat (the open slots provide a little more air flow)

Hmmmm only 2GB per, eh? Didn't you say in post 50 that you have 2 4GB sticks - or did I read that wrong?

I wonder sometimes.... I have an older Cpq and when I 1st had it, they said a max of 2GB, so i bought a pair 2x1 and plugged them in - fine. About 2 years later they changed their mind and stated a 4Gb max. So I waited, just installed the 4GB a few months ago and everything is fine.

Sooooo, we know that Ultimate x64 can access 192GB,
the Asus specs for your board say 16GB,
the QVL says
KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3K3/12GX(XMP) 12GB(3 x 4GB) DS - - - 1.65 • • •
KINGSTON KHX1600C9D3K3/12GX(XMP) 12GB(3 x 4GB) DS - - 9 1.65 • • •

I suspect that you could be able to push it to 16GB, perhaps more, but I'm not certain.
Call Asus and ask.

Ok, operate the machine as normal and report any new BSODs. When you're comfortable that the issue has been resolved, wait another month =:> and then see about more memory.

memory vendors work off the specs from the mobo, so you usually won't see conflicting information. Sometimes you do and you have to ask "Which one do I trust?"

I'm trying to recall what might have stabilized your machine. I think the biggest factor was changing the RAM speed in BIOS from auto to 1333Mhz. A few minor housekeeping chores (clean startup tab in msconfig).

Anything else stand out - you did the work. Thanks for your help - hope the machine remains stable.

mp1cass0 said:

All I need is SDK - Android phone. Will get it fixed later today. Kids out of school Tuesday and one home yesterday so no time.

No problems with memory as of yet. Out of curiosity - instead of running 2-4 GB sticks, would I be better running 4-2 Gb sticks? Do a lot of multi-tasking which leads to my desire of 8Gb

I would stay with 2-4 GB sticks. Easier if you want to upgrade.


From your motherboard manual and support site:

You may install 512MB, 1GB, 2GB, 4GB unbuffered ECC and non-ECC DDR3 DIMMs into the DIMM sockets

4 x DIMM, Max: 16 GB.

Running 4X4GB on that motherboard will likely require some setting adjustments.
As with all non-matched RAM there is no guarantee that it will run stable. I would get the same brand and model number, that will give you a good change for stability. Different brand will cut your chances dramatically.
Always best to get a matched set.

Glad to hear your system is running stable, and you're welcome.
You can start a thread for your new build, you'll get lot's of advice, just post the link here and we'll chime in.

This is not uncommon for the AMD/RAM frequency issue.
I have seen systems run at 1600MHz for months or a year, then start crashing. If you search the subject, many say it can cause CPU degradation, which would explain why it takes a while to show up on some systems.
I remember seeing links from AMD saying it can seriously damage the CPU, but they may be just covering their CPU flaw.

Going to stick with the 8GB's for now, as everything seems to be running fine.

Downloaded HW monitor this morning - noticed when I left BIOS settings on auto, my CPU VCore was going over 1.43 at times (.850-1.425V per AMD). I now have set it at max of 1.3V (update: running at 1.175 and no problems) and found another "surprising" benefit...CPU runs cooler. Was at 49 degrees earlier, when running at 1.368v, now at 1.28V and maintaining around 45 degrees. Planning to use OCT, monitor temps (max is 62) and go from there. Lesson learned - AUTO is not always the best setting. As a side note - any benefit to dropping voltage even more, other than longevity? No plans to overclock.

Learned quite a bit about AMD/BIOS/RAM settings, etc., this go around...hopefully will make things a little easier next time (or make my problems that much harder to solve! ).

If I have another BSOD, will repost. At this time, though, I would consider problem solved!