Memory Issue - Installed 6GB but only getting 4GB Usaable

[shstapleford]

Memory Issue - Installed 6GB but only getting 4GB Usable on a X58A-UD7 motherboard. Running Windows 7 x64 and have each 2GB memory in slots DDR3_1, DDR3_3 and DDR3_5. Any suggestions?

[Dark Mantis]

Hi and welcome to the Gigabyte UK Forum.

You have one of two problems. Either the memory modukles have a fault or there are bent pins on the CPU socket. I would suggest checking the memory for errors first as it is the easier option.

Download and run Memtest 86+ on each of the modules in turn (singularly) in the first slot for at least ten loops each. If you encounter any errors then the module is faulty.

Memtest86+      http://www.memtest.org/

[shstapleford]

Mem test passes. I have switched memories around and get the same result.

Issue is in the BIOS.

BIOS States there are DIMMS in SLOTS 1, 3 and 5 which is the 6GB
BIOS States only slots 1 and 4 are enabled which is only allowing 4GB

 

[Dark Mantis]

What revision is your motherboard and what BIOS version are you presently running?

[shstapleford]

Rev 2.0 motherboard - Version FC Firmware - Updated from FB - Both are doing the same thing.

[Dark Mantis]

Latest we have on our site is FC6. How did you update it with @BIOS?

[shstapleford]

Yes - @BIOS - I will try the FC6 and let you know.

[Dark Mantis]

NO don't mess with it again! I really don't recommend you using @BIOS at all. It is far too dangerous  and probably caused your problem in the first place.
Use the BIOS utility QFlash. It is much safer and you can also clear the DMI data at the same time.

[shstapleford]

Used QFlash and updated to FC6 and cleared the DMI data - Still having same issue.

[Dark Mantis]

In that case I would say it's time to check the CPU socket.

Taking great care and observing anti-static rules follow the next sequence.

Very carefully remove the heatsink and fan. Probably a slight twisting motion is best to release the two as the thermal paste can act like a glue.
 
Once off remove the CPU taking extreme care both physically and electrically(static) and place somewhere safe.
 
Make sure that the lighting is very good and even.
 
Now scrutinise the socket for any pins that are out of alignment, even slightly.
 
If in any doubt whatsoever take a couple of macro (close up) photos of the socket and post them on here for us to check.
 
Also look at the bottom of the CPU at the lands (little copper circles) and make sure that there is a mark in each somewhere near the centre. If there are any missing marks or any of the pins are obviously bent then that is your problem.

[shstapleford]

Your suggestion worked!

I looked at the processor with a 10x loop and found that a few pins did not have dimples impressions.

Reseated the processor and everything came up perfect.

Thank you for your help with this!

[Dark Mantis]

No problem at least you managed to get it workingh without having to RMA the board or such, but be honest I bet you didn't expect to find any bent pins did you? I know from past experience people think "what the hell is he talking about?" You would be suprised how often it happens.