Possible memory corruption issue -- Trying to repair my OS

[Septaped]

Hello,

This issue began when I noticed a Windows Update kept failing to install (it would either finish and leave an error message or completely freeze my computer).  After searching online and running the Windows Update Troubleshooter, I discovered that my "component store has been corrupted." 

The websites I was looking at suggested that a "repair install" of Windows was the solution to that issue, but I wanted to try all my options before resorting to something that drastic.  I ran the System File Checker, which failed.  I then ran chksdk, which also failed (it stalled at 17%).  Neither of those gave me any helpful information.

I then ran some of the HP diagnostics from the menu accessible by pressing ESC when the computer is booting up.  The hard disk check reported no problems, but there was a problem with the memory module.  I have attached a photo of the error screen to this post, but the key information seems to be as follows:

Failure ID:  MBSXTA-5TC97F-MFPV4K-407L03

Product ID:  QE121UA#ABA

Is this memory problem just some bad files somewhere, or is it a hardware problem?  I am all set to do the repair install of Windows, but my fear is that if the real problem is with the hardware, then my attempt to re-install the operating system could fail and leave me with a completely unusable comuputer (right now it works fine as long as I diable Windows Update).

In short, I'm looking for some insight as to what this error message means.

Thank you.

[IT_WinSec · Accepted solution]

Hello @Septaped

I checked your code and this is definitely a hardware problem with the memory / RAM module. It needs to be replaced with a new one from the very same type you have at the moment >  DDR3 SDRAM , 4 GB. Should be 1333 Mhz You might consider an upgrade

Because your warranty period has expired, you will need to replace the faulty RAM module - buy it on your own. There are variety of options - vendors you can choose from. You can get it online or from reputable PC retail store, or from HP parts store http://partsurfer.hp.com/

You need to open your computer, get the faulty module out, buy a new one of the same type and insert it

More info:

>> https://www.computerhope.com/btips/memory.htm

>> https://support.hp.com/nz-en/document/c00820047

Hope this helps.

[Septaped]

Thank you for your help.  My problem is solved, so this message is just a follow-up, mainly for the benefit of anyone with a similar problem who might come across it in the future.

I had actually previously upgraded my RAM by adding a second 4GB stick in the empty slot.  I figured out which stick was the problem by leaving one stick at a time in the machine and running the diagnostic test again.  The faulty one has been removed, so I'm back to just having 4GB of RAM until I order a new stick.

The hardware problem was apparently unrelated to my corrupted component store for Windows update (unless interacting with the bad RAM is what permanantly corrupted one or more of those files), so I still had to do the repair install of Windows 10.  I was very glad to not have to worry about hardware issues when I did that, though.  My OS is working properly now and has gotten all its updates.

Thank you again.