BSOD-memtest86 errors but fixed at low frequency

[yasir123]

I was having many BSOD's with various error codes. These included directx (dxgmm1.sys) with error codes such as 0x0000007e and many more. It happened more frequently when playing games (it could not play far cry 3 for over 30 mins without crashing) however it also happened at random times (connecting to the internet or browsing for example). I logged CPU and GPU tempretures however they never went over 65c. I then tested the RAM using memtest86 (booted from USB) which game many errors ( thousands within 8 tests). I tested both ram modules individually and got errors on both.

However after some confusion as to what the stock ram frequency was i lowered it to 1333mhz compared to 1600mhz which they were set to earlier. I then tested using memtest86 again and got no errors at all (2 passes) on both Ram modules. After looking at the stickers on the RAM and checking the place where i got them from i discovered that they do actually have a stock frequency of 1600mhz which was comfirmed by the bios selecting it while it was on 'auto'. This was surprising as the RAM can't run properly at stock frequency but can when the frequency is reduced.

1)Why am i getting no memtest errors while at a lower frequency and will the BSOD's stop (i will check later)?

2)Will lowering from 1600mhz to 1333mhz cause a considerable decrease in gaming performence?

3)Should i return the RAM only or everything (it came pre-built) as maybe there could possibly be problems with the motherboard aswell???

 

[HarriePateman]

Run the ram for 8 Tests!

If i can't run at stock frequency for 8 tests.

take it back!

 

[yasir123]

I am now running at lower than stock frequency with no BSOD's and am getting the RAM replaced.
Could there be problems with the motherboard as well so should i get it replaced as well.
Should i reinstall windows because there could be corrupt files as it was installed using faulty RAM.

 

[HarriePateman]

The motherboard Should be fine.

Run this too see if there are any corrupt files.

http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/1538-sfc-scannow-command-system-file-checker.html

 

[yasir123]

thanks for the help so far.
I contacted the seller and was told that they would test the RAM and if it wasn't faulty i would have to pay for checking and delivery. Is it possible that the RAM isn't actually faulty.
The list of compatible frequencies on the motherboard says: 2000(OC)/1866(OC)/1600(OC)/1333/1066
Does this mean i have to overclock in order to use ram at 1600mhz since it has an 'OC' next to it while 1333 doesn't?
If so do i need to overclock my processor?