Memory · medium

How to fixRAM-DUAL-CHANNEL-FAIL

RAM dual channel mode failure

What this error means

RAM dual channel mode failure (RAM-DUAL-CHANNEL-FAIL) is a medium-severity fault affecting the system memory (RAM). The system is operating in single-channel memory mode instead of the expected dual-channel configuration. Dual-channel mode doubles the effective memory bandwidth by using two RAM channels simultaneously. Operating in single-channel can reduce performance by 15-30% in memory-intensive tasks and can cause instability in some configurations. Typical causes include RAM modules inserted in wrong DIMM slots and one RAM module failed. The steps below are ordered to resolve this efficiently.

Before you begin

Save open work and back up important files. Use instructions for your exact device and software version. If Windows cannot start, see the startup guide.

Work through these checks

0 of 3 complete
01Reinstall RAM in correct dual-channel slots (A2+B2)
  1. Reinstall RAM in correct dual-channel slots (A2+B2)
What to expect

Check whether the original symptom still occurs.

If it does not help

Continue only if this check applies to your device. Consult its manufacturer if you are unsure.

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02Test each RAM stick individually
  1. Test each RAM stick individually
What to expect

Check whether the original symptom still occurs.

If it does not help

Continue only if this check applies to your device. Consult its manufacturer if you are unsure.

Browse related errors
03Check motherboard manual for correct slot positions
  1. Check motherboard manual for correct slot positions
What to expect

Check whether the original symptom still occurs.

If it does not help

Continue only if this check applies to your device. Consult its manufacturer if you are unsure.

Browse related errors

Possible causes

  • RAM modules inserted in wrong DIMM slots
  • One RAM module failed
  • BIOS memory channel configuration error

Useful Windows tools

These commands open Windows tools. Review changes before applying them.

msinfo32