Debugging bad memory problems

[Dave B]

On 26 Apr 2015 at 23:05, Fernando Apesteguía wrote:

> I booted from a memtest CD-ROM. It passed a couple of tests fine and
> then it rebooted while doing a "bit fade" test at around 93%.
> Removing the modules is tricky since this laptop has screws all
> around in dark corners (even removing the battery needs a screw
> driver). I will try to limit physical memory with hw.physmem and see
> if it makes any difference.
> 
> Thanks!
> 

Check for CPU cooling problems too, such as an obstructed cooler or grumbly 
fan.  (Also if you can, check for bad power supply issues.)  

Older AMD CPU's don't take kindly at all to running too hot, unlike some Intel 
devices that will start to cycle skipping to lower the disipation, just slowing down 
in effect.  

"Supliment the cooling" when running such tests, RAM can disipate quite a bit of 
power when worked hard (as Memtest86 does.)   Elevate the laptop and waft air 
under it, but not in such a way as to oppose it's own intended airflow.  

Hope you find the trouble.

Dave B.