Memtest86 errors - CPU at fault?

[geoff2k]

I recently purchased a stick of CMX512-3200C2PT for my MSI KT3 Ultra ARU. After installation and config (timings 2-2-2-6-1T 8QW Ultra), I ran memtest86 and got 12 errors in 2 passes. All errors were in test #5. :-(

Before RMA'ing, I decided to try the same stick in my wife's computer which is an identical setup to mine (KT3 Ultra ARU, Athlon XP 1800+ running at stock 1533 Mhz) with the same timings. Memtest86 ran all night (and is still running) with no errors.

Obviously, something is amiss.

What is the likelihood that the processor is at fault? The next step of my upgrade plan is to buy a new motherboard, but if there is any chance that the CPU is bad, I'd rather have a "known good system" and replace the CPU as well.

Any insight on whether failed memtest86 #5 tests could be the CPU's fault?

 

[ASRaiven]

Test5 is stressing the RAM..i don't think that it's your cpu faults.

Stable ram timings are not idntical between AMD rig's and Intel rig's..the fact that u cloukd ran the ram in those timings on the MSI doesn't mean that you would be able to do so on the 8SQ800,

hope i helped.

 

[Megatomic]

I sent you a PM Geoff. He's an Instrument Engineer's take on the situation:

The motherboards are identical models but they are far from identical. Each component is slightly different from one board to the other. By the time you add all the variations you actually have a big error from the standpoint of being "identical". There is something different about your motherboard that is causing the fault to occur. It's probably a small thing that you would never have noticed had you not installed that RAM.

You have an Epox 8RDA+ on the way. Stress that Corsair on that motherboard, chances are VERY good that you'll be a very happy camper. I hope that helps Geoff.

 

[Y23KC]

Test five is a cached test so all data is run through the L1 cache on the processor first. I didn't see any specs as far as your rig goes, but a proc overclocked too far will cause an unstable L1 and errors on test #5.

If the processor is not overclocked, then it could be a problem with the motherboard or proc or both.

 

[geoff2k]

The processor isn't overclocked in either machine. Both XP 1800+'s are running at their stock speed (1533 Mhz).

 

[Y23KC]

Originally posted by: geoff2k
The processor isn't overclocked in either machine. Both XP 1800+'s are running at their stock speed (1533 Mhz).

Hmmmm, if you are bored, I guess you could try your wife's cpu on your motherboard to see what happens.