My 2nd ram slot doesnt work

[BrennanGP]

Product: HP Slimline Desktop 260-a100ni

Operating System: Microsoft Windows 10 (64-Bit)

HP Slimline Desktop 411-a024. It comes standard with 2 slots for RAM. This is a mini-pc so it uses the smaller laptop ram. The PC comes stock with 1 4gb stick of ram found in slot 1. 

Upon attempting to add an additional stick into slot 2, the computer lights will turn on and the hard drive will spin as if booting up, but no connection will be made to the monitor. At first I thought it was the RAM upgrade, but that proved not to be the case due to the fact that the 2nd stick of RAM works just fine in slot 1, and the original RAM that came with the PC does NOT work if placed in slot 2. In fact, if ANY piece of RAM is placed into slot 2, the computer is unable to establish a connection with the monitor. Additionally, if slot 1 is left empty, and RAM is placed in slot 2, the same error occurs.

I've checked the BIOS settings, and I see no relevant settings for activating the 2nd slot of RAM. I also don't see any switches or problems on the motherboard itself causing problems, and I haven't been able to find someone with this exact problem online for this PC. That being said, this problem must be common due to the fact that upon not being able to succeed in making the RAM upgrade. 

Am I doing something wrong? Can anyone offer advice on this? It would be much appreciated

[A_Gayathri]

Hi @BrennanGP,

Welcome to The HP Support Community.  

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.

I understand the issue you've described, it's possible that the second RAM slot on your HP Slimline 260-a000 Desktop PC series is either defective or has a hardware issue. 

Here are some steps you can take to diagnose and potentially resolve the problem:

Inspect the RAM Slot and RAM Sticks:

• Carefully inspect the second RAM slot for any visible damage or debris. Use compressed air to clean out any dust or particles.
• Ensure that the RAM stick is properly seated in the slot. Sometimes RAM sticks need a firm push to be fully seated.

Check for BIOS Update:

• Visit the HP support website and check if there is a BIOS update available for your model. Updating the BIOS can sometimes resolve hardware compatibility issues.
• Follow the instructions provided by HP to update the BIOS.

Reset the BIOS/CMOS:

• Power off the computer and unplug it from the power source.
• Open the case and locate the CMOS battery on the motherboard. Remove it for a few minutes, then reinsert it. This will reset the BIOS settings to default.
• Alternatively, you can use the BIOS reset jumper if your motherboard has one.

Test with Different RAM Configurations:

• Test each RAM stick individually in the first slot to ensure both sticks are functioning properly.
• Test each RAM stick individually in the second slot to verify if the second slot is functioning.
• If both RAM sticks work in the first slot but not in the second, it points to a problem with the second slot.

Refer to this document:  HP Desktop - 260-a100ni User manual

I hope this helps. 

Take care and have a good day.

Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution.