I messed up

[Hashmarks]

Problem description:

I didn't check the memory compatibility as close as I should have and now (five years after building this computer) I've realized I have 2x4GB sticks that are specced to run as dual channel, but my system won't fully boot with them in any configuration but single channel.
My mobo is an Asrock z97 Pro4.
The ram is Kingston DDR3 1866 DIMM

If there's someway to jerry-rig the bios settings to get these to run in dual channel that'd be the ideal fix.

Attempted fixes:

I tried all the different slot combinations and lowered the ram from 1866 to 1600 to match the mobo's requirements.
The system only fully boots when the sticks are slotted for single channel mode. When slotted for dual channel, it seems to boot but there is no video and it restarts itself after a minute or so and that process repeats ad nauseum.

 

[coercitiv]

Here's a list of things to think about to help eliminate potential issues:

• Does the system fully boot with sticks inserted in either A1+A2 or B1+B2? In other words are all slots working properly when using single-channel configurations?
• Are board settings close to default? (no overclocks, no multi-core enhancement etc)
• Is memory voltage set at 1.5V or higher?
• Have you tried enabling XMP? Even without overclocking this usually increases memory controller voltage, which may help on occasion.

The default configuration for dual channel setup is A2+B2 (slots 2 and 4 counting from the CPU slot), but I guess you already know that.

Your priorities should be making sure the RAM is configured with the stock timings and voltage. If you google the exact product ID on your memory sticks you should be able to find a PDF from Kingston with the exact specs - such as this. If everything is configured properly and system fails to boot, you can set memory speed to 1333 or you can attempt enabling XMP for the reason explained above, just to see if anything helps with stability.

You may also want to check for a BIOS update if you're running a very old 2014 version. (I doubt the 2018 BIOS helps with anything else but the security patch).

 

[nOOky]

Is one stick bad? Try resetting the bios by removing the battery and doing the jumper thing, then inserting one stick at a time and booting back up and run a memory checker. Update the bios and insert both sticks if they are both good.

 

[aigomorla]

check your cpu socket pins...
missing ram can also be a sign of a bent pin, or a improper cpu seat.