"Games Crashing After Installing New RAM | 6 Ways to Resolve the Issue"

Having ample Random Access Memory (RAM) is vital for an optimal gaming experience. Many individuals opt to upgrade or install new RAM to enhance their device's performance. However, encountering the issue of "games crashing after installing new RAM" can be frustrating. What could be causing this problem, and how can it be resolved? This article from tools will delve into the underlying issues and present six solutions to address this problem.

Can New RAM Cause Games to Crash on PCs?

Although the objective is to enhance your PC's performance, installing a new RAM can occasionally lead to game crashes. While this is not a universal issue, it might occur due to the following reasons:

[New RAM crashing PC](https://www.reddit.com/r/buildapc/comments/yeo011/new_ram_crashing_pc/) by [u/brownsa93](https://www.reddit.com/user/brownsa93/) in [r/buildapc](https://www.reddit.com/r/buildapc/)

1. Incorrect RAM Installation: Installing RAM in the incorrect slot can lead to improper functioning, negatively affecting your PC's performance.
2. Outdated Chipset Driver: This driver manages communication between various components in your PC. An outdated version could cause your RAM to malfunction.
3. Outdated BIOS: If your BIOS is not updated, your new RAM might also result in game crashes.
4. Defective RAM: It's possible that the RAM you purchased was faulty to begin with. You'll need to replace it with a working one from your supplier.
5. Low-Performance Power Plan: Such plans might not support high performance, leading to game crashes after upgrading to a larger RAM capacity.

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How to Resolve Game Crashes Following New RAM Installation

The objective of installing new RAM is to enhance your gaming experience and improve your computer's performance. To address the RAM issue, you can try the following remedies:

1️⃣ Confirm RAM Compatibility with the PC 2️⃣ Run the Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool 3️⃣ Modify Power Plan Settings 4️⃣ Undervolt or Downclock RAM 5️⃣ Update the BIOS 6️⃣ Update Chipset Drivers

Fix 1: Confirm RAM Compatibility with the PC

Incompatible RAM can often lead to crashes while gaming on your computer. To check if your RAM is compatible with your PC, follow these steps: 1. **Check Your Motherboard Specifications**: First, you need to know the specifications of your motherboard, particularly the type of RAM it supports. This information is usually found in the motherboard's manual or online on the manufacturer's website. 2. **RAM Type**: Determine the RAM type (DDR3, DDR4, etc.) and the speed (such as 1600MHz, 3200MHz). Ensure the RAM you plan to buy matches these specifications. 3. **Socket Compatibility**: Each RAM module has a specific socket type. Make sure the RAM you're considering has the same socket type as your motherboard. 4. **Voltage Compatibility**: Check the voltage rating of the RAM and ensure it's within the safe range for your motherboard. 5. **Channel Support**: Motherboards often have dual-channel or quad-channel support. To take advantage of this, you'll need to install RAM in pairs of the same size and speed. 6. **Maximum Capacity**: Find out the maximum amount of RAM your motherboard can handle. Don't exceed this limit. 7. **Verify with CPU-Z**: Install a tool like CPU-Z, which provides detailed system information, including RAM compatibility details. By ensuring compatibility in all these aspects, you can minimize the chances of your computer crashing during gaming due to RAM issues.

Step 1. Navigate to the Search bar, type "System Information," and press Enter.

Step 2. Click on the "System Summary" section and take note of your PC's system model, processor, and baseboard information.

Step 3. Following this, you can verify the specifications of your RAM and confirm if it aligns with the system information displayed for your PC. If not, you can buy a new RAM that is compatible with your device.

Solution 2: Run the Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool To check for any memory issues on your Windows computer, you can use the built-in Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool. Follow these steps: 1. Press the Windows key + I to open Settings. 2. Click on 'Update & Security' from the options. 3. In the left pane, select 'Recovery.' 4. Under the 'Reset this PC' section, click on the 'Advanced startup' link. 5. Click on 'Restart now' in the 'Advanced startup' options. 6. Your computer will restart and show the 'Choose an option' screen. Select 'Troubleshoot.' 7. Next, click on 'Advanced options.' 8. Select 'Windows Memory Diagnostic.' 9. Choose whether you want to 'Run the diagnostic test once' (Recommended) or 'Restart now and check for problems (recommended).' 10. Your computer will restart again and run the memory diagnostic test. This process may take some time, so be patient. 11. Once the test is completed, your computer will restart normally. If there are any memory issues, Windows will attempt to fix them. If the tool detects any errors, it's recommended to replace or update the problematic RAM module(s). If no issues are found, proceed to the next fix.

The Windows Memory Diagnostic tool checks for potential issues with your computer's memory (including the RAM). Using this tool can assist in determining if there is a problem with your RAM. Here's how to proceed:

Step 1. Open the Run dialog box.

Step 2. Type "mdsched" and press Enter.

Step 3. The Windows Memory Diagnostic window will appear. To scan for memory issues, choose "Restart now and check for problems."

Step 4. The system will then check for any potential errors with your RAM and display the results.

Fix 3: Change Power Plan In case the issue is related to your computer's power plan settings, altering it might help resolve the problem. Follow these steps: 1. **Access Power Options**: Click on the Start button, type "Power Options" in the search bar, and press Enter. This will open the Power Options window. 2. **Choose a Different Plan**: In the Power Options window, you'll see two default plans - Balanced and High Performance (these may vary depending on your system). Click on "Change plan settings" next to the plan you're currently using. 3. **Modify Settings**: In the next window, you can adjust the settings for your chosen plan. You may want to select "High Performance" for better system performance, although this will consume more battery power. 4. **Additional Settings**: Click on "Change advanced power settings" to access more detailed options. Expand the categories and set the desired values for each setting. Be cautious while changing these, as some settings may affect system stability or battery life. 5. **Save Changes**: After making the adjustments, click "Apply" and then "OK" to save the new power plan settings. 6. **Test the Fix**: Restart your computer and check if the issue persists. Remember that different systems might require different power plan configurations. Experiment with various settings to find the best fit for your situation.

Your games might also crash after installing new RAM due to incorrect power settings. To resolve this, you should set the power option to "High Performance." Follow these steps: 1. Access your computer's Control Panel or Settings menu (depending on your operating system). 2. Look for "Power Options" or "Energy Settings." 3. Click on "Change plan settings" next to your current power plan. 4. In the new window, click "Change advanced power settings." 5. Expand the "Processor Power Management" option. 6. Under "Maximum Processor State," ensure both "On Battery" and "Plugged In" are set to 100%. 7. Expand the "PCI Express" section and set "Link State Power Management" to "Off" or "Min Power State." 8. Click "Apply" and then "OK" to save the changes. After adjusting these settings, your computer should allocate more resources to handle demanding tasks, potentially preventing game crashes.

Step 1. Open the Control Panel.

Step 2. Click "Hardware and Sound."

Step 3. Navigate to "Power Options" and click on "Choose a power plan."

Click on "Choose a power plan."

Step 4. Choose "High performance" and exit to save the modifications. This setting will optimize your system to utilize more power and enhance its performance.

Fix 4: Downclock RAM

Overclocked RAM requires additional resources, such as power and CPU capacity, which can lead to system crashes while gaming. To resolve this issue, you need to downclock or underclock the RAM to ensure it operates correctly within the existing resources. Here are the steps to do so: 1. **Enter BIOS/UEFI**: Restart your computer and enter the BIOS or UEFI settings by pressing the designated key during the boot process. This key is usually F2, F10, F12, or Del, but it may vary depending on your motherboard manufacturer. 2. **Find Memory Settings**: Navigate through the menus to locate the memory configuration or timing settings. This might be labeled as "Memory," "DRAM," "Memory Settings," "M.I.T.," or "Advanced Memory Settings." 3. **Identify Current Clock Speed**: Check the current clock speed of your RAM. It's often displayed as "Memory Frequency" or "DRAM Clock." Overclocked RAM will have a higher frequency than its stock speed. 4. **Downclock the RAM**: Decrease the memory frequency to its default or factory-clocked speed. You may also adjust individual timings like CAS Latency, RAS-to-CAS Delay, and Command Rate if needed. Be cautious while changing these settings, as incorrect values can cause instability. 5. **Save and Exit**: Once you've made the changes, save them and exit the BIOS/UEFI. Your computer will restart with the new settings. 6. **Verify Stability**: After the restart, run stress tests like MemTest86 or Prime95 to ensure that your RAM is stable at the downclocked speed. If there are no errors reported during an extended testing period, your system should now be more stable while gaming. Remember that downclocking may void your RAM's warranty, and not all motherboards support manual frequency adjustments. Always consult your motherboard and RAM manufacturer's documentation for specific instructions and guidelines.

Step 1. Access the BIOS settings on your computer and then search for "Overclocking Settings."

Step 2. Navigate to the memory settings, and then select "Advanced DRAM Configuration" under "DRAM Timing Mode."

Step 3. When the next screen opens, enter your new values for "Memory Timings."

Step 4. Go back to the previous menu and adjust the settings under "DRAM Voltage."

Step 5. Next, go to the "DRAM Frequency" and select a speed that corresponds to your RAM.

Translation:

Step 6. Save the changes made and restart your system. Your PC should now function properly with the new RAM installed.

Fix 5: Update BIOS

The BIOS plays a role in recognizing and initializing all the hardware components on your computer. If the BIOS is outdated, your motherboard might not be able to properly identify the new RAM installed in your system.

You need to update the BIOS settings to ensure that your system correctly recognizes your RAM. To accomplish this, visit the official website of your device manufacturer and choose your specific computer model. There, you'll find instructions on how to update the BIOS.

Here are two articles to guide you through updating the BIOS on your PCs: 1. **Title:** How to Update BIOS: A Comprehensive Guide for Windows Users **Content:** In this article, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of updating the BIOS on your Windows PC. BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) is a crucial component that initializes and provides an interface between the hardware and operating system. Keeping it up to date ensures compatibility with new hardware and enhances system stability. Follow these steps to safely and efficiently update your BIOS: 1. Backup your data 2. Check current BIOS version 3. Visit the manufacturer's website 4. Download the latest BIOS update 5. Create a bootable USB or CD/DVD 6. Enter BIOS setup 7. Perform the update 8. Restart and verify the new BIOS version Remember to exercise caution during the process, as incorrect BIOS updates can lead to serious issues. 2. **Title:** Updating BIOS on Mac: A Beginner's Guide **Content:** For Mac users, updating the firmware, which includes the BIOS equivalent, is slightly different. In macOS, it's referred to as the "System Management Controller" (SMC) or "firmware update." This article will simplify the process for you: 1. Back up your Mac using Time Machine 2. Check for available updates 3. Open 'System Preferences' 4. Click 'Software Update' 5. Install any available updates, including SMC or firmware 6. Restart your Mac to complete the process Apple typically bundles BIOS updates with macOS updates, making the process seamless for users. Always ensure you have a backup before proceeding with any updates. These articles will provide detailed instructions tailored to each operating system, ensuring a smooth BIOS/firmware update experience.

Fix 6: Update Chipset Drivers

These drivers play a crucial role in facilitating communication between various components in your PC. Issues might arise with components such as system memory (RAM) or graphics cards if the chipset drivers are outdated. To update your chipset drivers, follow these steps:

Step 1. Open Device Manager.

Step 2. In the Device Manager window, locate the "System devices" option and double-click on it.

Step 3. Find the chipset driver you want to update. Right-click on it, then choose "Update driver."

Step 4. Next, click the "Search automatically for drivers" option. You can now follow the on-screen instructions to complete the chipset driver update.

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Pro Tip: How to Backup PC Game Saves Effortlessly Are you looking for a simple method to backup your precious PC game saves? Fear not, as there's an easy way to ensure your progress is always safe. Here's a step-by-step guide: 1. **Identify the Save Game Location**: First, determine where your game saves are stored. This usually varies depending on the game. Often, they can be found in the "My Documents," "AppData," or the game's installation folder. Check the game's settings or online forums for the exact location. 2. **Create a Backup Folder**: On your PC, create a new folder specifically for game backups. Name it something like "PC Game Saves Backup" for easy reference. 3. **Copy Save Files**: Navigate to the save game location and copy all the save files. These files might have extensions like .sav, .sl2, or .gta5 (depending on the game). 4. **Paste into Backup Folder**: Paste these files into your newly created backup folder. Make sure not to alter or rename the files, as this could cause issues when reloading your saves. 5. **Optional: Cloud Sync**: For added security, consider syncing this backup folder with a cloud service like Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive. This ensures your saves are accessible from any device and protected against local storage failures. 6. **Regularly Update Backups**: To keep your backups current, repeat this process after significant milestones or accomplishments in your games. This way, you'll always have a recent save to fall back on. 7. **Restore Save Data**: In case of loss or corruption, simply locate the latest backup of the save file, copy it back to its original location, and overwrite the existing file. By following these steps, you can now easily backup your PC game saves without any hassle. Happy gaming!

You might risk losing your files if your PC games keep crashing, especially after installing new RAM. The ideal solution to address this issue is to备份你的游戏存档. One efficient tool for this purpose is Todo Backup. This software enables you to backup your game saves effectively.

This free backup and restore software enables you to back up your game files to the cloud, network, external storage, NAS, or local storage. Todo Backup allows you to safeguard your game saves to a different location in case of system failure. Thanks to its intuitive user interface, this tool ensures a swift and precise backup process.

It also supports various backup methods, such as encrypted, incremental and differential backups. Todo Backup proves invaluable in disaster recovery scenarios following system crashes, virus attacks, or hardware failures.

Make sure to download Todo Backup right away to safeguard your game saves in case of a system malfunction. The steps to use this tool are incredibly straightforward.

Step 1. Download and install Todo Backup on your computer. Click the "Create Backup" button on the main interface.

Step 2. You need to back up your software applications, so select the "Apps data" option.

Step 3. All the apps that can be backed up are displayed on the screen. (Outlook is currently supported, and we will progressively develop and support more application backups, such as game apps, other email clients like Thunderbird, Gmail, Microsoft 365 apps, and so on.) Scroll down to locate the app you need to back up, and click "OK".

Step 4. Follow the prompts and choose a location where you want to save the backup. It's recommended to select a cloud service, NAS, or an external hard drive to prevent data loss in case of computer failure or crash.

Step 5. You can set up a customized backup by clicking the "Options" button. This allows you to schedule backups to run daily, weekly, monthly, or upon specific events. It also enables you to choose between differential or incremental backup options based on your requirements.

Step 6. After finishing the settings, click "Backup Now" to initiate the backup process. The duration will depend on the size of your source data, but it shouldn't take too long.

To Wrap Things Up

There could be various reasons behind the issue of "games crashing after installing new RAM". Common causes include improper RAM installation, an outdated chipset driver, an outdated BIOS, a power plan with low performance, or faulty RAM. This article has outlined six solutions that can help resolve the problem.

To prevent losing your game saves due to crashes, it is advisable to use a backup utility like Todo Backup. This tool enables you to save your game progress to various locations, such as the cloud, network, external storage devices, NAS, and local storage. Make sure to download Todo Backup today and secure your game files with backups.

Frequently Asked Questions About Games Crashing After Installing New RAM

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding games crashing after installing new RAM: 1. **Why do games crash after installing new RAM?** - Games might crash due to compatibility issues between the new RAM and your system, outdated drivers, incorrect RAM configuration, or issues with the RAM itself. 2. **How do I check if the RAM is compatible with my motherboard?** - Check your motherboard's manual or search online for its specifications to ensure the new RAM meets the requirements in terms of type (DDR3, DDR4, etc.), speed, and voltage. 3. **Should I update my BIOS after installing new RAM?** - Yes, updating the BIOS can sometimes resolve compatibility issues. Make sure to download the latest version from your motherboard manufacturer's website. 4. **How do I test the RAM for errors?** - Use a memory diagnostic tool like Memtest86 to run extensive tests on your RAM sticks to identify any potential issues. 5. **What if the RAM is installed incorrectly?** - Incorrect installation can cause crashes. Double-check your RAM placement, ensuring it's seated properly in the correct slots according to your motherboard's dual-channel or quad-channel configuration. 6. **Do I need to update my graphics card driver?** - Outdated drivers can contribute to crashes. Updating your graphics card driver to the latest version might solve the issue. 7. **Should I try running the game in a lower resolution?** - If the new RAM is causing stability issues, lowering the game's graphical settings or resolution could help determine if it's a performance-related problem. 8. **Is it possible that other software is conflicting?** - Some programs may interfere with game performance. Try closing background applications or running the game in Safe Mode to see if conflicts are present. 9. **Can I return the RAM if it doesn't work?** - Most RAM manufacturers offer a warranty. If you've confirmed the RAM is faulty, you should be able to return it for a replacement or refund. 10. **When should I seek professional help?** - If you've tried troubleshooting steps and the crashes persist, consider consulting a professional technician or reaching out to the RAM manufacturer's support for further assistance.

1. Why Does My Game Keep Crashing After Installing New RAM?

Your game might crash for the following reasons:

1. Incorrect installation.
2. Outdated chipset driver.
3. Outdated BIOS.
4. Defective RAM.
5. Low-performance power plan.

Make sure you address these issues.

2. How Do You Fix a Computer That Continuously Crashes After Installing New RAM?

You can utilize the following solutions to address the issue:

• Ensure RAM Is Compatible with the PC.
• Run the Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool.
• Change the Power Plan.
• Downclock RAM.
• Update BIOS.
• Update Chipset Drivers.

This article has deliberated on these methods in depth.

3. Does Increasing RAM Affect Gaming?

Increasing the RAM (Random Access Memory) can improve your gaming performance by boosting the system's speed. However, this does come at the cost of utilizing additional resources on your computer, such as the Central Processing Unit (CPU) and power consumption. In some cases, upgrading the RAM might also lead to more frequent game crashes. It's crucial to ensure that the RAM you intend to install is compatible with your PC.