BSOD while running CPU and RAM intensive simulations

Vesnog · 06 Apr 2016

Greetings,

I have a desktop PC with Windows 7 64-bit installed, and I use the package FDTD Solutions from Lumerical Company on this computer in order to calculate electromagnetic fields for a particular structure. My simulations last for 2-3 hours and usually when the simulation is around 20% of completion, I get BSOD and the computer crashes.

In order to remedy this issue I have updated the BIOS of the computer and reinstalled the drivers for all the hardware including the chipset. However, this did not work and I consulted the IT department of our university to have them inspect it. They reinstalled Windows 7 and the software related issues were resolved, yet the BSOD issue recurred when a simulation was run.

I think the problem might be overheating, but the some of the messages I remember were as follows: "IRQL NOT LESS OR EQUAL", "MEMORY MANAGEMENT". I think there might be one more different message. If you need I can support additional information. I also have the temperature vs. time data for the computer, however, I am yet to process it as it is in a very cluttered csv file. What might me the culprit? Any suggestion is welcome.

Thanks in advance

**axe0** · 07 Apr 2016

I also have the temperature vs. time data for the computer, however, I am yet to process it as it is in a very cluttered csv file.

That would be appreciated, a screenshot is also good instead of a CSV file or something :)

Diagnostic Test

RAM TEST

Run MemTest86+ to analyse your RAM. MemTest86+ - Test RAM - Windows 7 Forums

Note

MemTest86+ needs to be run for at least 8 complete passes for conclusive results. Set it running before you go to bed and leave it overnight. We're looking for zero errors here. Even a single error will indicate RAM failure.

Addition:
If errors show up you can stop the test, remove all sticks but 1 and test this single stick in each slot for 8 passes or until errors show, switch sticks and repeat.
If errors show up and you see them a lot later, no problem, the errors don't affect the test.

Vesnog · 07 Apr 2016

Okay I am running the Memtest for at least eight times and I will let you know when the results are ready.

Vesnog · 08 Apr 2016

I have run the test for 7 passes and I am waiting for the 8th pass to be completed. So far there are 66 errors and all of them occurred in the first pass as a former photograph shows. What do these imply and how should I proceed?

**axe0** · 08 Apr 2016

I quote from my instructions, this can also be found in the tutorial

If errors show up you can stop the test, remove all sticks but 1 and test this single stick in each slot for 8 passes or until errors show, switch sticks and repeat.
If errors show up and you see them a lot later, no problem, the errors don't affect the test.