Memtest86

Memtest86

2067

Information

Version:
11.5
Size:
0.3 Mb
License:
0
OS:
Windows

Memtest86 is a popular diagnostic software tool designed specifically for testing and verifying computer random access memory (RAM). Created by Chris Brady in 1994, this standalone program runs independently of any operating system.

The primary purpose of Memtest86 is to detect memory errors and stability issues by performing various comprehensive tests on RAM modules. It writes different patterns of data to memory, reads them back, and verifies if any corruption has occurred during this process.

The program can be booted from a USB drive or CD/DVD, making it easily accessible when troubleshooting memory-related problems. It's particularly useful when experiencing system crashes, blue screens, or random errors that might be caused by faulty RAM.

Memtest86 is available in both free and premium versions. The premium version, called Memtest86+, offers additional features and enhanced testing capabilities. The tool is widely used by IT professionals, system builders, and computer enthusiasts to ensure memory reliability and stability.

For best results, it's recommended to run Memtest86 for several hours or complete multiple passes, as some memory errors may only appear after extended testing periods.


General Information
Full Name Memtest86
Developer PassMark Software (current), Chris Brady (original)
First Release 1994
Latest Version 9.6 (as of 2023)
License Commercial (Pro), Free version available
Operating System Standalone (boots directly)
Purpose
Main Function RAM testing and diagnostics
Use Cases - Memory failure detection
- System stability testing
- Hardware validation
- Troubleshooting
Technical Details
Boot Method - USB drive
- CD/DVD
- ISO image
- UEFI boot
Supported Memory - DDR5
- DDR4
- DDR3
- DDR2
- DDR
Maximum RAM Size Up to 256 GB (Free), Unlimited (Pro)
Test Types
Standard Tests - Address test
- Pattern test
- Random pattern
- Stuck address
- Block move
- Random sequences
Advanced Tests (Pro) - Hammer test
- Cache test
- Row hammer test
- Targeted test
Features
Basic Features - Memory mapping
- Error logging
- System information
- Temperature monitoring
Pro Features - HTML reports
- Remote testing
- Command line interface
- Extended logging
- Email notifications
System Requirements
Minimum - x86 processor
- 64MB RAM
- USB port or CD drive
Recommended - Multi-core processor
- 512MB+ RAM
- USB 2.0+ port
Compatibility
CPU Support - Intel processors
- AMD processors
Architecture - 32-bit
- 64-bit
BIOS/UEFI - Legacy BIOS
- UEFI firmware
Output Information
Error Reporting - Error address
- Error type
- Expected vs actual value
- Test number
System Info - CPU details
- Memory configuration
- SPD data
- System temperature
Advantages
Reliability - Industry standard tool
- Thorough testing methodology
- Proven track record
Ease of Use - Simple interface
- Automated testing
- Clear results
Limitations
Free Version - Limited features
- No advanced tests
- RAM size limit
- Basic reporting
General - Cannot test GPU memory
- Requires system restart
- Time-consuming tests