3-beep error on startup usually indicates a system memory error. If it is, please check your ram module to see if it is seated properly.
How to swap ram slots on a motherboard
- Shut down your computer and unplug all of the cables connected to it. Then remove the side of the computer case so you can access the motherboard.
- The RAM slots are adjacent to the CPU socket. Look for the big heat sink at the top of the motherboard, and you’ll see either two or four memory slots next to it.
- Once the memory slots have been identified. Start by toggling the plastic retention clips at either end of the memory slots so you can pull out the RAM. (Make sure to take note of which of the four memory slots the original ram was installed in)
- Now it’s time to reinstall the RAM sticks. Make sure the memory module is correctly oriented: The notch in the bottom edge of the RAM must match up with the rise in the memory slot. (Recall which of the four slots your RAM was installed in and reinstall it in the opposite slots (Unless you have enough RAM sticks to fill all slots, then install in all slots)).
- Now that you’ve seated the RAM in the slot, toggle the plastic retention levers to lock your new memory modules in place.
- Finally, close up your computer case, plug everything back in, and turn on your computer. It may take a couple of restarts for your motherboard to recognize and adjust to the new memory you’ve installed—so don’t panic if your computer is acting funny at first. Let it run for a few minutes, then restart it and everything will be back to normal.
- If you hear the 3 Beeps again on start up then you more than likely have a bad RAM stick, (contact iT to order new RAM sticks).
Quick Video that shows a visual of this process
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