Computer Tip of the Week

May 14, 2010

Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool

Having errors that make you suspect you have a memory problem? Don't want to put out a lot of $$$$$ for diagnostic software? If you are running Windows Vista or Windows 7 you have a memory diagnostic tool at your fingertips that you may not have known about ... Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool.

To run Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool just click on the Windows Start button on your Taskbar and  type: mdsched in the 'Search Programs and Files' textbox and then press Enter on your keyboard.

A window opens giving you two choices:

  • 1. Restart now and check for problems (recommended)
  • 2. Check for problems the next time I start my computer

Click on the first option making sure you have saved your work and closed any open programs first. Your computer will reboot and start the diagnostic program. That's all there is to it!

If you want more control over what is tested and how press the F1 key as the diagnostic test is starting. Now you can choose:

  • The type of memory test to perform:
    Basic
    Standard (default)
    Extended
  • Set the Cache for testing On, Off or leave it Default
  • How many passes you want to have the tests make (0 - 99, 0 being infinite, the default setting is 2)

Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool will run with your options and display the results and restart your computer. Don't worry if you did not see the results Windows will display them again after you log on.

If you do have a problem you will still have to put out the cash to replace your memory. Those faint of heart when seeing jumbles of cables and electronic circuit boards may want to call a qualified technician to perform this task. If you are knowledgeable about the type of memory you need and seeing the inside of your computer does not make you squirm; then you can save even more dough by replacing the memory yourself.

by: Steven Hodges


Next week: Next week we will discuss... Running a Virtual Machine





Diagnostic Tool Command
Run the mdsched command from the Start Menu

Diagnostic Tool Command Options
Select - 'Restart now and check for problems' or 'Check for problems the next time I start my computer'

The Test Screen
Windows reboots and runs the Memory Diagnostic Tool

Diagnostic Options
The F1 key will give you options

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