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iliyria

1 Rookie

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9 Posts

64

April 4th, 2025 01:02

T430 Memory Issues

I purchased a T430 from a 3rd party. I wanted to take the memory to 12x32GB. However, I get random errors in the BIOS not detecting modules in different banks. I have tried different CPUs and in different configurations (dual CPU and single and different models of CPUs) but it never fully detects the correct amount of RAM installed (yes, I reseated the RAM a bunch of times and changed the order). I thought it was the server so I purchased an identical server and RAM and it does the same thing (mostly reporting bank A4 and with different sticks installed in that bank).

The RAM modules are Hynix 32GB 2R4 PC4-2400T-RB1-11 (HMA84GR7MFR4N-UH) and Hynix 32GB 3Rx4 PC4-2400T-RB2-11 (HMa84GR7AFR4N-UH). The issue duplicates in 2 systems but it appears that one system likes the HMA84GR7MFR4N-UH better.

I have updated the BIOS as well as iDRAC to the current versions. My ultimate goal is to have dual CPUs with 384GB RAM running TrueNAS scale and 12x4GB (2 of them being parity) SAS 12gbps drives. However, this memory issue is driving me nuts.

What are the odds that I purchased 2 faulty systems with pretty much the same exact issues? 

Thank you in advance! 

Dell-Martin S

Moderator

 • 

3.5K Posts

April 4th, 2025 12:55

Let’s break down some potential causes and solutions for the memory detection problems you are experiencing.

Possible Causes

  1. Incompatibility of RAM Modules:

    • You mentioned using two different Hynix RAM modules. Mixing different types, such as the 2R4 and 3R4 varieties, can sometimes lead to compatibility issues even if they share similar specifications. Try using only one type at a time to see if that resolves the detection problem.

  2. BIOS and Firmware Issues:

    • While you have updated your BIOS and iDRAC, ensuring that the firmware is entirely up to date is crucial. Sometimes, specific versions of BIOS have known issues with certain hardware configurations, so checking for any specific notes regarding memory compatibility might be helpful.

  3. Faulty RAM Modules:

    • If both systems are exhibiting the same memory issues, there is a chance that the second-hand RAM could be faulty. If possible, test each RAM stick in a different machine known to work well with 32GB modules.

  4. Motherboard Issues:

    • Though it would be unfortunate, there might be issues with the motherboards in both systems. Issues like damaged pins in memory slots or other hardware faults could also lead to similar symptoms across both machines.

  5. Seating and Configuration:

    • While you’ve reseated the RAM, make sure that each module is firmly in place and that you are following the recommended configuration for dual CPUs with memory channels. Check the documentation for the specific order in which RAM should be placed for optimal performance.

  6. Power Supply Considerations:

    • If you’re using a power supply that’s not robust enough to support the demands of dual CPUs with all memory slots filled, it could lead to erratic behavior, including RAM detection problems.

Steps to Troubleshoot

  1. Test Each RAM Module Individually: Install each module in isolation in different slots to determine if one stick or slot is problematic.

  2. Use a RAM Diagnostic Tool: If possible, run a memory test tool (like MemTest86) from a bootable USB drive to check for errors in each module.

  3. Check the Motherboard Specs: Verify that both systems support the type of RAM you’re trying to install. The information is usually available in the motherboard manual.

  4. Consider Running with a Single CPU: Initially configure with just one CPU installed and test the RAM, which may help isolate whether the CPU or the motherboard is causing issues.

iliyria

1 Rookie

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9 Posts

April 4th, 2025 01:19

This is the error on one of the systems. There is 8x32GB (256GB total (50/50 mix of both types of RAM mentioned above)) and its not reading 1 stick...

(edited)

iliyria

1 Rookie

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9 Posts

April 4th, 2025 02:08

This is the errors on system #2. Dual E5-2667v4, 2x 1100watt PSU

iliyria

1 Rookie

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9 Posts

April 4th, 2025 03:45

I know the system is older but I upgraded the hardware to be used in my homelab as a NAS, Plex server and backup server.

iliyria

1 Rookie

 • 

9 Posts

April 4th, 2025 19:38

@Dell-Martin S​ 

Thanks for the prompt reply. I may have made progress on this issue. If I leave bank B3 (the one reporting an error) unpopulated, all of the 11 other banks came online showing 352GBs of RAM. Im assuming its the socket itself (or a tracer). I do not see any bent pins in the socket and I used compressed air to make sure there was no debris but that didnt help. Since the socket caused other sockets not to detect RAM, Im wondering if there a dead short on the motherboard and when it you insert RAM, it completes the circuit and the short takes out the other banks randomly.  

(edited)

DELL-Charles R

Moderator

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4.4K Posts

April 4th, 2025 20:44

Hello,

 

It seems like you have found that there is a bad memory socket B3.

 

Your system supports Flexible Memory Configuration, enabling the system to be configured and run in any valid chipset

architectural configuration. You may just have a non-optimal memory configuration message on POST. You should be able to use the configuration you have found to work. You of course would not be able to use socket B3.

 

I am also seeing that the two images you provided with a DIMM reporting Multi-Bit errors. It's in different slots in the pictures, I assume that is from the two system you are testing it in. Either way you should replace the DIMM with Multi-Bit errors.

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