Windows 7 crashes when using more than 2GB RAM

[hardycore]

This problem has been steadily getting worse. First games would crash, usually preceded by the sound cutting out and then crashing to desktop a few minutes later. I also get frequent BSODs, PAGE FAULTs or IRQ NOT LESS THANs.

Suspecting a video card issue, I updated video drivers, tried using my integrated graphics, and updated every other driver I could think of.

I took every stick of RAM out save one (was using 4 2GB sticks) and the issues stopped. I bought 2 new 4GB sticks compatible with my mobo and they are back with a vengeance. Dropping to 1 4GB stick does not help.

I also replaced my PSU for good measure (it was old anyway). My computer has great difficulty booting as well, a red LED comes on and it has to restart itself multiple times before it actually turns on.

What the heck is going on? I suspected a RAM issue, but with new ram and a motherboard that is only 4 months old I can't imagine whats going on. Most people with this issue seem to have a driver or RAM problem, but I can't figure out what to do.

 

[TVeblen]

Hello hardycore. Welcome to the forum.

You've got so many things going on it's hard to know where to start.

But lets start here:
"My computer has great difficulty booting as well, a red LED comes on and it has to restart itself multiple times before it actually turns on"

Is the red LED the "MemOK" LED on the motherboard? (Check your manual if you are not sure)

What is the Brand and model number of the RAM you bought for the motherboard. (All six sticks please).

The first thing I'd like you to try is go into the UEFI (BIOS) settings and go to the Exit menu and "Load Optimized Defaults". See if that changes anything.