Start Up and Memory BIOS Test Failed

[Alexandra73]

Okay, I'll get right on that. Have a good weekend!

[Alexandra73]

Turns out I only have one memory stick. Where do I go from here?

[AttackofZaq]

You're going to want to order the replacement through HP Part Surfer if it is available to ensure you get the correct part.

The part numbers are 621569-001 (4GB), 621565-001 (2GB), and 639736-001 (1GB). Did your notebook have two spots for memory modules or just the one? In any case I suggest getting the maximum amount of RAM. So, either purchasing 1x 4GB or 2x 4GB sticks is preferred. You are using Windows 7 64-bit so 8GB of RAM should be recognized without an issue. However, you can use any configuration of these modules that you would like, I just personally suggest getting 4-8GB of RAM to use in the notebook.

If I can do anything else to assist just let me know 🙂

[Alexandra73]

Alright, I'll do that. Quick question, why do you think the memory starting failing like that?

[AttackofZaq]

That question is hard for me to answer as I'm not an engineer and have a limited understanding of how electronic devices function on a fundamental level. I will do my best for you though!

By far the most common way that RAM is damaged is ESD (electrostatic discharge). This is most common in a desktop PC in which you've physically touched the RAM without properly grounding yourself. I have personally destroyed my own RAM this way. The static can also be built up through interaction with dust in the air or other environmental factors such as heat/humidity. Basically any electronic device that is not used solely in a (scientific) clean room will be doomed to fail at some point. As I stated before I've had RAM die at all points (dead on arrival, months, or even work for years) so it isn't a matter of if it will die but when. Think of it like a car. Even if you take perfect care of the vehicle eventually something is going to break. It is only a matter of time.

I hope this answer helps 🙂

[Alexandra73]

That sounds like a good enough answer to me. One more question, if I was to clear out all the dust and debris inside the computer, do you think the memory would return? And a question about the memory replacement, how many GB do you think my notebook would hold. I would like to maximize my memory now that I have to replace it.

[AttackofZaq]

No, as the damage has been done at this point.  However, that is very good preventative maintenance.  You need to clean out the notebook frequently as dust does build up inside which can lead to other problems (especially heat related problems).  This document can help with that.  I suggest doing it every few months

As far as how much memory your notebook supports that really should only be limited by the number of slots.  In previous versions of Windows there was a limit of 4GB of RAM which was due to the fact that the operating system was 32-bit.  When you're using a 64-bit operating system like Vista, 7, or 8 then you have a (theoretical) limit of 192GB.  However, there are some limitations in place depending on the version of Windows 7.

If you have Windows 7 Home Basic you can use up to 8GB of RAM.  If you have Windows 7 Home Premium it supports up to 16GB.  The Enterprise/Professional/Ultimate versions of Windows 7 support up to the full 192GB. 

So, as long as your notebook has two memory slots you should have no problem using two 4GB sticks of memory.  I can understand not wanting to do this because it would of course be more expensive.  4GB is more than enough for most people.  In fact, both my personal and work computers only have 4GB of RAM and I have no issues running tons of applications and a few (older) games.  So, either 4GB or 8GB is the route to go depending on how much you'd want to spend.  If you were to upgrade to 8GB of RAM it would likely extend the usefulness of your notebook for a little longer.  As this is usually the first bottleneck as computers progress.  

In short I suggest getting 8GB if you'd like to keep your computer for a bit longer before upgrading but 4GB will be more than enough for most people.  🙂