Since there is a lot of cheap hardware being sold these days, it is a
descent possibility that your RAM is simply defective. But, there are a few
thing to check before making the decision. First, is it the right type of
memory for your motherboard? Different boards require different
http://www.hardwarecentral.com/hardwarecentral/subjects/, EDO, SDRAM and
others. You'll have to look in the manual for it's supported memory types.
Is the memory the right size? Obviously, you can't stick 30-pin SIMMs into a
72-pin SIMM slot and expect it to work. Is it installed correctly? All the
way in the slot? Is the bank completely full? Are any jumpers that need
flipping flipped? You could try cleaning the metal contacts if the memory is
old. Also, make sure there is not a limitation to how much memory the
motherboard or the CPU can handle. Make sure that the actual memory speeds
jive with the timing settings in the BIOS.