Blue Screen error: Win32k.sys

[mcmillb1]

Originally Posted by gvblake22

Computers are crazy beasts and can seem to throw a fit at seemingly any inconvenient time. Try running Memtest86+ to check for memory errors. Please list all of the components in your computer. Better yet, make yourself a signature please.
Welcome to HardwareLogic!

I tried the Memtest86+ - there are about 8 versions - I tried them all (after the EXE one didn't work) and, none worked!

I created a signature, though!

[Reloadron]

Give something a try. I assume you added 1 GB of RAM to an existing 512 MB. Remove the original 512 MB and see what it does with just the new 1 GB.

Ron

[gvblake22]

Originally Posted by mcmillb1

I tried the Memtest86+ - there are about 8 versions - I tried them all (after the EXE one didn't work) and, none worked!

I created a signature, though!

The easiest method to use Memtest86+ is to download the .iso and burn the image to a CD, then boot the computer from the CD. You change the boot order in the BIOS (tap the Del or F1 key as the computer is turning on to access the BIOS). And you still didn't list what computer or parts you have. See if you can find out as that often makes troubleshooting easier.

Originally Posted by Reloadron

Give something a try. I assume you added 1 GB of RAM to an existing 512 MB. Remove the original 512 MB and see what it does with just the new 1 GB.

Ron

Good call Ron, I didn't think of that.

[mcmillb1]

Originally Posted by gvblake22

The easiest method to use Memtest86+ is to download the .iso and burn the image to a CD, then boot the computer from the CD. You change the boot order in the BIOS (tap the Del or F1 key as the computer is turning on to access the BIOS).

Ok - thanks for everything so far!

I downloaded the .ISO to a CD - rebooted - changed boot order from first checking CD, then Hard Drive...it acts like it's reading the CD Drive in each case, but, nothing happens - and windows then starts right up.

I even tried removing the Hard Drive from the boot options completely, and that really didn't work!

'Eh?

[mcmillb1]

Ok, I took the dunce cap off, and finally got the Memory test to work.

Short Version: Pass = 1, Errors = 0.

Long Version:

Pentium 4 (0.13) 2660 MHz
L1 Cache: 8k - 21803 MB/s
L2 Cache: 512k - 18601 MB/s
Memory: 1535M - 1194 MB/s
Chipset: Intel i 875P (ECC Disabled)
Settings: RAM: 166 MHz (DDR 332) / CAS: 2.5 - 3 - 3 - 7 / Single Channel (64 bits)

Cached: 1535 M
Rsvd Mem: 1072k
Mem Map: e 802-std
Cache: On
ECC: Off
Test: Std



Now what? Obviously there IS since the Blue Screen of Death is coming around...??

I haven't tried any of the memory swap outs yet (still trying to contact Kingston directly)...

[mcmillb1]

Here's what the Kingston dude said.

You have our Value Ram (generic RAM, basically), so, t his looks like it is a compatibility issue. The Value Ram memory is not tested for compatibility in brand name machines such as for Dell, Compaq, Hp, Gateway, Sony etc. Because it is not tested for compatibility, we do not know if it is going to work for you. Value Ram (KVR) is our standard memory line and was designed with the whitebox user and system integrator in mind. Kingston ValueRAM products are engineered to meet industry standard specifications and are rigorously tested to ensure quality. However quite frequently brand name systems call for specific memory timings and may have limits to the DRAM densities used to support these systems. ValueRam may not meet these system specifications requirements, therefore Kingston suggests that you use memory specifically made for your system. This is not to say that Value Ram will not work in a brand name computer. But some revisions of the part may be made with components that are not compatible with a specific computer or group of computers.

He said I could return it and pay a slight difference (19 bucks) and get non-crappy Ram. Joy.