MSI K8T Neo2-F Memory/Boot Problems

[virax]

My MSI K8T Neo2-F is having a few problems. Specifically, when I put anything into the second two mem-slots (the purple ones visible here), it won't POST. It powers on, but never puts out any video output.

About the memory itself, the only difference between the first two sticks and the second two sticks is the CAS latency (the first two are 2.5, the second two are 3) and brand. All four sticks are DDR400 double-sided 512MB sticks.

I have several ideas as to what the problem might be, but I really would like some feedback/help.

Firstly, the BIOS Agent reports that I already have 2GB installed, when I only have 1GB in at the moment. The other two sticks are sitting right beside me. However, AIDA32 correctly reports only 1GB of memory. Why this would be, I have no idea.

My other hunch is in relavence to the 'recommended memory combination list' displayed in the aforementioned msi.com URL - it implies that when all four slots are filled with double-sided memory, the maximum speed is DDR333, as opposed to DDR400. However, I would think that this would only down-throttle memory speeds to DDR333 speeds, instead of causing boot issues.

Any ideas?

EDIT: For the record, I can't boot ANYTHING in the purple slots - not even the old RAM that I know works. I've tried using the DIMM1 and DIMM3 slots, as well as the DIMM2 and DIMM4 slots - the same issue persists. However, if I use DIMM3 and DIMM4, it boots fine. I'm starting to think that I've just got a bad slot.

 

[virax]

Wow, these forums are awesome.

 

[grooge]

These forum are being seen by people that are not paid, thus, not tied to answer to every post. Most of them has a life outside their computer, especially the week end. So, if you post and expect an answer within the second, then you'll asking more that the goal of these forum. Thsy are free to use without any obligation to anybody to spend the whole week end looking for new question and post an answer.

By the way, while you are waiting, you can search throught the other posts for question that might help you to resolve your problem. It is permitted to search these forum and read other's questions.

Too bad, I could have helped you, but I now have to go outside and enjoy my last day off before going back to work.

 

[virax]

I understand the forum members here aren't paid, and I understand that people have lives outside of their computers. That, and I was hardly expecting for an answer within the second - if you'll notice, I waited a good twelve hours before responding.

That having been said, I spent a good two hours searching through previous posts for any answers, and another few hours searching other various forums.

Also, I would hardly believe forumers to be obligated to assist me - I apologize if my second post implied so. I hope you can understand that I'm just... somewhat agitated. Again, sorry about that.

Enjoy your day off... I only wish I were. ;p