PassMark MemTest86

PassMark MemTest86: Comprehensive RAM Diagnostic Software

Free diagnostic software for testing RAM modules, detecting errors and faults that cause crashes or unstable system operations

What is PassMark MemTest86?

PassMark MemTest86 is a popular free utility for testing the integrity and stability of computer memory, specifically RAM modules. It runs a series of diagnostic tests designed to detect a wide range of errors, faults or instability issues that may exist within the computer's RAM.

The testing process involves writing test patterns to all memory addresses, reading back the data, and comparing it for inconsistencies which would indicate a defect in RAM. The comprehensive set of tests checks for memory leaks, stuck bits, coupling faults, pattern sensitivity faults and more. It also tests the stability and reliability of the RAM over time under heavy load conditions.

By thoroughly exercising and stress testing the RAM modules, any existing manufacturing defects, damage caused by overclocking or operational faults will typically manifest as errors during testing. This allows the user to identify problematic RAM that is causing crashes, data corruption, blue screens, game freezes or other unstable system behavior.

Since unstable RAM can intermittently corrupt data without completely failing, MemTest86 is a useful diagnostic tool even if the computer appears to be mostly stable under normal use. Letting the tests run for multiple passes provides a higher degree of certainty about the integrity of the memory. It is often recommended to test RAM when errors start appearing or when overclocking memory/CPUs to ensure stability at the higher frequencies.

PassMark MemTest86 Features

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