Random Tip: Three beeps at start-up may mean it's time to replace the RAM

Every now and then I'll post random tips regarding things you may encounter while working in a library.

If a computer suddenly halts in the middle of what it's doing, tries to restart itself and makes three beeps that are coming from the machine's internal speaker and there is no image on the screen at all - not even a BIOS screen, it usually means one of the RAM cards inside the computer has failed.  The problem can be solved, and the machine restored to use by replacing the RAM chips on the motherboard.  RAM is also referred to as your "desktop memory" and refers to the chips long slender chips -there can be anywhere from one to four of them- that sit in inside the computer perpendicular to the desktop.

An image of a RAM chip

If you have IT staff at your library the best thing is to put RAM replacement in their hands, but if you are a small library and have to do the job yourself then one thing that's key is to make sure that the replacement RAM you purchase is the right speed.  When you pull the old RAM chips out there's usually a sticker somewhere on the chip which will say something like "PC5400 DDR2 667 MHz", that is the RAM speed of the chips, and you'll want to make sure that the replacement RAM you install matches the specs of the chip that you pull from the machine.  It isn't important to get an exact match on the brand of the RAM, as many PC manufacturers purchase their RAM from various suppliers, and often the brand of RAM that's installed stock on a machine can be very difficult to find.

It is important to purchase RAM from a company that has a good reputation.  Replacement RAM is a commercial product that's usually handled by computer experts so companies become leaders in the field by reliably providing working parts.  I have a personal preference for PNY and Crucial brand RAM chips as I've used them many times and have never had a defective part, but those are by no means the only producer of high-quality RAM chips, and preferences will vary.


Here's a link to a reputable website on how to replace your RAM.
http://www.howtogeek.com/101856/hardware-upgrade-how-to-upgrade-your-pcs-ram/

One item to reiterate before you begin this project: the PC must be disconnected from any power sources, and the power plug and all connecting cables must be pulled out of the computer before you attempt to replace computer RAM.  Failure to do so can result in a build-up of static electricity that will short out the motherboard and render your computer completely useless.

I'll be posting more random hints as things occur to me.