RAM Question (Possible dead RAM chip?)

[steiney]

Hello All,

I have a 2.33 Ghz Intel Core 2 Duo Macbook Pro (A1211) with 2 GB of RAM (2 x 1 GB). The computer is about 3 1/2 years old now. It used to run very smoothly and was able to handle everything I threw at it. However, over the last couple of months, I have noticed that it seems to have a hard time handling the same amount of tasks/use that it once was able to handle. I don't think I have started using the computer more vigorously than before.

Question: Is it possible that one of the RAM chips "burned out" or stopped working, thereby effectively putting my computer at 1 GB of RAM? The only other option I can think of is that I just need to reinstall the operating system, which would be a hassle.

If anyone has any ideas or tips/suggestions, I would greatly appreciate them.

Thanks in advance!

steiney

 

[Neo-Tech]

Use the discs that came with your MacBook Pro and run the Apple Hardware Test with the extended option selected. This will highlight any errors with RAM, logic board, processor etc.

 

[steiney]

Wow, thanks for such a quick response! I will check into that.

So I put the disc in and hold down "C"?

 

[Neo-Tech]

Haha, no problem

I think it's C or D, it should say on the disc what key to hold down. Good luck

 

[steiney]

Cool, thanks!

 

[spinnerlys]

Intel-based Macs: Using Apple Hardware Test

Note: Please be sure to disconnect any external devices, printers, hard drives, scanners, and so on (other than the Apple keyboard and mouse) from your Apple Computer before starting up to Apple Hardware test and running the Diagnostic.


To start up your computer in Apple Hardware Test:

• If the computer is already on, insert the appropriate disc into the optical disc drive, then restart. If the computer is not on, turn it on and insert the disc as soon as possible after startup.
• Press and hold the "D" key before the gray startup screen appears.
• It takes a minute or so for Apple Hardware Test to start up and inspect your hardware configuration. While this is taking place, an icon appears on the screen:
  When the process is complete, select your language and click the right arrow. If you aren't using a mouse, you can use the up and down arrows to select a language and then press the Return key.
• The Apple Hardware Test console appears. You can choose which sort of test or tests to perform:
  To perform all of the basic tests, click the Test button or press the "T" key or the Return key.
  To perform a more thorough diagnostic test, select the "Perform extended testing" checkbox under the Test button before you click the Test button.

found via "apple hardware test"

 

[steiney]

Spinnerlys,

Thanks! I appreciate the instructions. I'll post back if I have any more questions after running the diagnostic.