TROUBLESHOOTING

1. Q. Why are some known good modules failing on RAMCHECK?
   A. There are several possible reasons. First, your RAMCHECK may need to have its program updated. We recommend updating its program in these instances before calling for tech support. Check our Program Download Site for the latest program revision. Second, your RAMCHECK may need an Hardware upgrade because the device you are testing may not be supported with your current hardware. Third, the module itself is not yet supported by our firmware. We are constantly developing additional support based on modules sent to us for evaluation by our customers. Please review the Test Accuracy and Reliability FAQ page for further reasons on why this may happen. Please also refer to Application Note INN-8558-APN5 for further details.
   
   
2. Q. Why disabling "Full Page Burst" may cause "failing" modules to pass RAMCHECK tests?
   A. The Full Page Burst mode we use for SDRAM modules enables RAMCHECK to achieve fairly fast test times. However, since Full Page Burst is not a required feature by the PC-133/100 standards, many memory modules are not supporting this feature, or have only a partial support. RAMCHECK tries to assess if the Full Page Burst feature is supported on the tested module. If it determines that this feature is not supported, RAMCHECK will automatically disable this feature. However, we have found that some modules "fool" RAMCHECK to use Full Page Burst, and eventually fail the module. We recommend that if you encounter modules that fails intermittently in Basic Test, to try and disable the Page Burst feature manually. This can be done using Change-on-the-fly or Setup. Motherboards do not use Full Page Burst mode and therefore, disabling this feature only lengthen some portions of the test.
   
   
3. Q. Why do some modules pass the test on RAMCHECK and yet fail in the computer?
   A. Unfortunately, all memory testers, including those costing $500,000 and more, cannot achieve exhaustive tests (that is, 100% accuracy) due to the virtually unlimited possibilities of data combinations which may be stored inside a memory device. Therefore, while we continuously thrive to improve RAMCHECK's test algorithms, we cannot guarantee 100% accuracy of the test results. Try first to verify that you have the latest firmware and that you do not need an hardware upgrade as discussed above. If the module still passes RAMCHECK, consider sending it for evaluation. We are continuously improve our test algorithm based on "strange" modules sent to us by our customers. Please also review the Test Accuracy and Reliability FAQ page for more detailed information.
   
   
4. Q. Why the latest adapter I have just received is not working with my RAMCHECK?
   A. With the rapid development of RAMCHECK program and new adapters, your RAMCHECK may still have an older version of the program which does not support the new adapter. Verify that the program version (seen on power up) supports the adapter you are trying to use by reviewing our RAMCHECK Development Log. ALWAYS MAKE SURE TO UPGRADE YOUR RAMCHECK VIA THE INTERNET - it is free and easy. Check our Program Download Site for the latest program revision.
   
   If the program version is correct, there may be a bad contact between the adapter and the RAMCHECK expansion slot. A simple tech spray solution applied to the adapter's connector pins will usually eliminate problems that are due to a bad contact or connection. Sometimes, the adapter you have just received was developed after your unit was manufactured and since then we have incorporated some hardware changes in RAMCHECK. Please review our Calibration and Upgrade procedure page and contact our Tech Support.
   
   
5. Q. Why is the PC COMMUNICATION Software not transmitting the firmware to my RAMCHECK?
   A. It may be necessary to change the COM port setting for SIMCHECK's PC Software. Please refer to the Chapter 6 of the RAMCHECK on line manual to acquire further information on selecting a COM port.
   
   
6. Q. After various test parameters have been set, I can no longer use the RAMCHECK without encountering test failures. How can this be corrected?
   A. RAMCHECK uses a nonvolatile EEPROM which stores the setup changes, therefore, when turning it off then on, the previous setup is restored. If this causes problems with modules that the setup was not intended for, simply enter the code sequence F2-F5 from standby mode. This will clear any changes done to the program.
   
   
7. Q. I have recently purchased a RAMCHECK Plus tester and I am receiving a "Connector Wiring Error".
   A. Confirm that the DDR adapter is properly seated on the RAMCHECK base unit. Make sure that the RAMCHECK is turn off. Remove the adapter by carefully lifting the front of the adapter up first, then the back. Next, re-insert the adapter by aligning it on top of the two gray sockets, noting the pin orientation. Then carefully put pressure on the front of the adapter until it is seated all the way. Do the same for the back. Turn the RAMCHECK on. Once the unit boots up and is flashing “DDR 184-PIN DIMM”, press F1 with no memory inserted. You should see “No Memory” displayed on the LCD. Now you should be ready to test. Insert a DDR 184-pin module and press F1 to start the Basic Test.

If you have additional questions, please feel free to email us at support@innoventions.com. Please remember to include your phone and fax numbers.