ECC memory error

[sierrapeac]

I am getting an error "ECC memory error interrupt at F000:5679. Type (s)hut off NMI, (R)eboot, other keys to continue". That is the first thing that comes up on computer when starting up. Does anyone have any idea what this is? http://discussions.virtualdr.com/confused.gif

thanks

[Mulder]

Just to clarify, ECC (Error Correction Code) checks memory contents during every memory access, and reports and corrects any errors. It doesn't just check during the POST, but all the time your machine is running. Errors are logged into NVRAM/CMOS. It differs from parity-checking memory in that errors are not only detected but corrected.

You should certainly view the "ECC Memory Error Log" in the BIOS if you have that option.

If you get that error on every boot and at the same memory location, it maybe that one of your SIMM/DIMM (memory modules) is going bad, and should be replaced (the log may help you identify the problem module by its bank no.). It could just be a heat/system problem, and cleaning up your case cabling or reseating the modules, for example, may help.

If this is not a mission-critical system and is regularly backed up, you have the choice of letting ECC do its job or replacing the memory module.

[This message has been edited by Mulder (edited 07-11-2000).]

[sierrapeac]

Thank you so much. Dell is on the way to change the DIMM chip.