Best Free Memory Testing Utility

 
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Introduction
Many unusual and seemingly unrelated computer problems can occur if a computer memory module is malfunctioning. Memory testing utilities will help you discover if there are problems with your RAM.  If an error is found you may have to remove all but one of your modules and test them one at a time to discover which one is actually causing the problem.
Discussion

Memtest86+ is a stand-alone GPL utility that provides comprehensive memory testing for all x86 based PCs regardless of the operating system. It can be run from a floppy disk, CD, or USB drive. It's a tool geared towards experienced users, so if that's you, download it now for your PC toolkit.  It can be downloaded as an ISO file for creating a boot disk or as an executable file.

Another good testing utility is MemScope which runs from a self booting floppy disk. It uses eight different testing patterns that can be run once or continuously. It has a good reporting feature, and can be set to reboot after the completion of its tests.  MemScope must be run from a floppy, which is created by the downloaded file, so have a floppy handy. Registration is required so expect some email advertising, and be aware there are also some harmless advertisements in the product itself.

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Quick Selection Guide

MemTest86+    Rating 10 of 10  Gizmo's Top Pick

Pros    comprehensive memory testing, can be run from floppy, CD or USB
Cons    none
Developer Home Page   http://www.memtest.org/
Download link   http://www.memtest.org/#downiso
File Size      Version 2.11   License Type Unrestricted Freeware   Installation Requirements Intel compatible processor - No OS required
64 Bit version available   64 Bit version available   Portable version available Portable version available

MemScope    Rating 8 of 10

Pros    good reporting feature
Cons    must  be run from floppy
Developer Home Page   http://www.micro2000.co.uk/products/microscope/MemScope_Free_Memory_Tester.htm
Download link   http://majorgeeks.com/MemScope_d5601.html
File Size   1.76 MB   Version 1.10   License Type Unrestricted Freeware   Installation Requirements Intel compatible processor - No OS required
64 Bit version available   64 Bit version available   Portable version available Portable version available
Tags

best free memory testing utility, free memory testing utility

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This software category is maintained by volunteer editor Paul Lawrence.

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Here's a good one... RightMark Memory Analyzer
http://www.rightmark.org/

Another good free program is Microsoft's Windows Memory Diagnostic. Unfortunately, it has problems dealing with 4 GB or more of RAM.

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