GA-P55A-UD3 Attaching fans causes memory errors

[alister]

M/B GA-P55A-UD3 F11
CPU i5-750
RAM Corsair 10666 dominator kit 4x2gb with fan module (1.6v 7-7-7-20) CMD8GX3M4A1333C7
HD WD raptor 74gb
PSU Engermax 500W modular


This is weird, memtest+ 4.1 passes on all four sticks.  When I attach the fan the memory fails to pass memtest+

fan attached to sys_fan1

remove the fan and it passes!

[Dark Mantis]

Hi

You don't mention what other components you have installed like GPU, optical drive, etc.

I think that it might be simply that the PSU is struggling to supply enough power and plugging in the fan is just too much. Which fan is causing the problem anyway ?

[alister]

Sorry

The system had the following:
3x optical
5 x 3.5" drives
1 x 2.5" drive

it now has (all other totally disconnected)
1x optical
1x 2.5" drive

so the juice is there

the fans are the ones from the ram kit (fan module)

Graphics card is an ATI 4650 (PCI-E powered)
other card is Asus U3S6

I'm now trying to install KB973544 which is hanging. I'm going to rerum memtest+
Edit : i was trying to use a usb2 <-> sata adpatar that had hung

Also how much play should there be in the memory modules?

[Dark Mantis]

There shouldn't really be any play to speak of in the memory modules in the slots but of course some of the cheaper RAM does have thinner PCBs which can allow a bit of movement. I would be surprised if this was the case with genuine Corsair sticks though. It would sound like maybe installing the fan assembly is moving the modules and they aren't making a proper connection.     

To be honest unless you are planning some heavy overclocking the fans are not needed as the memory doesn't get that hot.

[alister]

Fan or no fan doesn't make a difference

Wiggled RAM and slots themselves can move a small amount - retested mem errors
wiggled again and it passes
tried third time still passes

I think I'm going to take some pics when it next fails and RMA it - this is driving me nuts

[Dark Mantis]

I would suggest RMAing the memory back to Corsair(or the retailer if they will accept it) and see if that is any better. Some PCBs do vary in thickness and it may be that is all the problem is. If not you can RMA the motherboard also.