Only One RAM Slot Works: How to Enable The Other Slots
Ram slot may fail if the RAM stick is incompatible
- RAM slot issues on your PC can occur for different reasons.
- A damaged RAM stick or card may not work in the slot, making it seem like the RAM slot is not working.
- The best practice for repairing RAM issues is to consult an expert.
Old RAM sticks or new ones plugged into the RAM slots on your PC’s motherboard can remain undetected by the RAM. Users complain that only one RAM slot works on their motherboard.
Likewise, the PC not Using all RAM is a problem with almost every PC.
Why is only one ram slot working?
When you notice that the motherboard only uses one RAM slot, the first guess is that the inactive RAM slot or the RAM stick plugged into it is damaged. If the slot is not intact, the system won’t use the RAM, only the functioning slot will work.
Furthermore, some factors that can also cause the second RAM slot not to work are:
- Incompatible RAM – Every motherboard has a maker. They all differ in terms of design and performance. Hence, not all RAM sticks are compatible with all motherboards because their hardware components can vary and may not support each other.
- Motherboard issues – Users can experience RAM slots not working after motherboard replacement or due to physical damage to the motherboard. Motherboards have makers, and they may have different designs, which makes it possible for them to be incompatible with some PCs.
- RAM stick not fitted properly – A RAM slot pin on the motherboard can be bent, preventing the RAM stick from sitting in the slot. Also, placing the RAM card incorrectly can cause it to appear as if the slot is not working.
- CPU or BIOS upgrade – Some users complain about experiencing issues with their RAM slots after upgrading their system’s CPU and BIOS.
Numerous other factors can cause only one RAM slot to work on your PC. Fortunately, the issue is fixable.
What can I do if only one RAM slot is working?
Observe the following preliminary checks before trying any fixes for the issue:
- Unplug any external devices connected to your computer.
- Disconnect the PC from its power source.
- Check if the RAM is compatible with your motherboard.
- Remove the RAM stick and properly set it in.
If only one RAM slot still works, proceed with the steps below:
1. Test RAM with Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool
- Left-click the Start button, type Windows Memory Diagnostic and launch the first search result to run the application.
- Select Restart now and check for problems. Windows will automatically restart and run the diagnostic tests.
- After Windows has restarted, check the diagnostic results to see if any issue is detected.
The Windows Memory Diagnostic tool will find any issues with your RAM. Proceed to the next step if it detects nothing.
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2. Switch RAM cards
- Hold the Power button to shut down the system completely.
- Depending on your PC, remove the back case by following the instructions in the user’s manual.
- Find the RAM cards on your motherboard and remove each from its slot, then fit the RAM card in slot 1 into slot 2, and vice versa.
- Following the appropriate procedure, assemble the PC.
Power up the PC and check if the two RAM slots work. Also, check if the RAM card in the working slot works perfectly on the concerned one. If it does, then you need to replace the second RAM card.
3. Replace faulty RAM card
The best solution is to contact your manufacturer directly and ask for the best replacement for your RAM card. It guarantees a compatible product and a quality replacement with a warranty.
To fix the RAM card after purchase:
- Hold the Power button to shut down the system completely.
- Depending on your PC, remove the back case by following the instructions in the user’s manual.
- Remove the RAM card you want to replace from its slot.
- Use the proper cleaning agents to remove accumulated dust from the slot, then carefully set the new RAM card into the slot.
- Assemble the PC and check if the issue is resolved.
4. Consult an expert for motherboard inspection or RAM slots replacement
Replacing RAM slots on the motherboard requires soldering and other processes. Hence, we recommend you seek the assistance of an expert when dealing with motherboard repairs.
Furthermore, any mistake can damage the motherboard and result in expensive repairs or total change. Alternatively, you can consult your manufacturer if your device has a warranty.
Conclusively, we recommend you read about laptops not booting after the RAM upgrade and ways to fix the problem. Also, you can read our guide on how to check RAM on Windows 11.
If you have further questions or suggestions, kindly use the comments section.
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