How To Fix DRAM Light On Motherboard? [15 Methods]

The DRAM light on a motherboard turns on when there is an issue with the RAM or CPU. Reinserting the RAM sticks, cleaning the slots, and updating the motherboard’s BIOS are a few solutions to this problem.

Key Takeaways

• The DRAM light comes on whenever there is trouble with the RAM.
• It may light up due to incompatible RAM, incorrect placement of RAM or CPU, or incorrect BIOS settings.
• You can solve the problem by cleaning the RAM module and the slots, updating the BIOS, or reconnecting the MOBO cables.

What Is DRAM Light?

DRAM light is placed on a computer’s motherboard near the RAM slots. The light turns on if there is a recurring problem with the installed Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM) or the CPU, like inaccurate placement or faulty RAM slots.

The DRAM light timely detects troubles with the computer’s RAM so you can tackle them urgently and prevent further damage. It only goes off once the trouble has been entirely resolved.

Why Does The DRAM Light On Motherboard Turns On?

There can be several reasons why the DRAM light may light up on the motherboard. Depending on the issue and the motherboard model, it can be static or blink continuously. The problem may arise due to the following;

• Incorrect BIOS configurations. 
• Incompatible RAM module.
• Incorrect RAM installation.
• Faulty motherboard components, such as RAM slots or capacitors.
• Insufficient power supply.
• Using outdated BIOS version.

Also Read: Can You Mix RAM Brands

How To Fix DRAM Light Issue On Motherboard?

In this section, I will update you on various ways to fix the DRAM light on the motherboard problem, from correctly placing the RAM module to replacing the motherboard. On the other hand, make sure you hear a “click” sound while inserting components into their respective slots on the motherboard. The sound ensures correct seating.

Ensure Correct Placement Of RAM Modules

The first troubleshooting step in this guide is to verify that you have correctly inserted the RAM module into its slot. To be sure, pull out the module, softly blow over it and the slot to wipe away any dust or dirt, and then place it back into the dedicated slot.  

Verify RAM Compatibility

Use the motherboard’s manual or the manufacturer’s website to see the list of supported RAM modules. Check out our RAM buying guide to make the process easier for you.

Examine The Power Supply

Sometimes, the problem may arise because of an insufficient power supply to the motherboard and its components. Go to the power supply board and look for any signs of wear and tear. Additionally, plug the wire into another power socket to rule out the cause. On the other hand, refer to our guide and learn what to do if your motherboard is not getting enough power.

Inspect The RAM Slot

The RAM module requires a functioning RAM slot to work smoothly. Make sure the RAM slot in your motherboard is not damaged. In case of a damaged slot, replacing it with a newer one is the only option to resolve the DRAM light error.

Examine MOBO Cables

One Reddit user removed the DRAM light problem on the motherboard by properly connecting the Motherboard (MOBO) cables. Since the motherboard’s power supply relies on MOBO cables, like 24-pin ATX Power Cable, 4/8-pin CPU Power Cables, and SATA Cables, you must verify that they are connected firmly to their sockets.

Clean The Motherboard

Regularly clean the motherboard to prevent the accumulation of dust and debris on its parts. However, be careful during the procedure to avoid damaging any component. I suggest reading your motherboard’s manual and following any specific cleaning steps mentioned.

On the other hand, you can use compressed air or isopropyl alcohol on a cotton swab to diligently clean the motherboard. Give it ample time to dry before assembling the case. 

Use One RAM Slot At A Time

If you are using multiple RAM sticks, pull out all of them and use only one RAM slot at a time. Besides, you can try inserting the RAM stick into different RAM slots at a time until the DRAM light goes off. Testing each RAM slot individually can help isolate the faulty one.

Run A Memory Test

A memory test comes in handy in locating problems and errors within the RAM modules of your PC. You can then fix the error and optimize your computer for better performance.

1. Simultaneously, press the “Windows+R” keys on your keyboard.

   

2. Type the code “mdsched.exe.” and hit “OK.”

   

3. It will launch a “Windows Memory Diagnostic” dialog box on your screen.
4. Select the first option, “Restart Now And Check For Problems.”

   

5. The memory test will initiate. Do not turn off your PC during the process.

Constricted CPU Heat Sink

If the CPU Heat Sink is too tight, it can lead to the unstable performance of your CPU and prevent proper heat ventilation, turning on the DRAM light. Therefore, loosen the screw to avoid these issues.

Update Your BIOS

I highly recommend you install the most recent version of BIOS on your motherboard to make full use of its features and functionalities. Furthermore, the updates solve the persistent issues the older versions face, preventing the DRAM light from turning on.

Below, I will discuss the complete method to update BIOS on common motherboard models like ASUS, HP, Lenovo, and Dell. Plus, read this guide if you are wondering what motherboard you have.

Look Up The BIOS Manufacturer And Version

1. Click on the PC’s “Search Bar” and type “System Information.”
2. “Open” the app from the search results.

   

3. Go to “System Summary” from the left pane.
4. Now, find “BaseBoard Manufacturer” and “BaseBoard Product” on the right section of the screen. Remember the manufacturer and product code mentioned in front of these headings.
5. Also, jot down the information in front of “BIOS Version/Date” to compare it with the available updates in the later steps.

   

Update BIOS

Lenovo

1. Head to the official Lenovo website and search for your product.
2. Once selected, choose the “Drivers And Software” tab on the left.
3. Locate the “Automatic Update” box and hit “Scan Now.”

   

4. “Agree” to the Terms and Conditions and press “Continue.”

   

5. “Download” Lenovo Service Bridge.

   

6. Choose a suitable disk to install the application.
7. Repeat “Step 3.”
8. “Install” the system update file. Let the process complete.

   

9. The next step is to “Select Drivers.” Hit the “Update Drivers” box on the right edge.

   

10. Select “Install Now.”

    

11. Once installed, open the application. Click on “Next.”
12. Wait for the search to finish.

    

13. Pick the “BIOS Update” available for your computer and go “Next.”

    

14. Press “Download.”

    

15. Hit “OK.”

    

16. “Accept” the agreement and choose “Next.”

    

17. Finally, press the “Install” option.

    

18. Select “Finish” once the process is complete.

    

19. You will see the message, “1 Package Was Successfully Downloaded And Installed.”

    

20. Click on “OK.”

    

21. The computer will restart. Make sure not to press any buttons or turn off the system until the updates are installed.

    

Also Read: How To Test Motherboard Without CPU

ASUS

1. Launch the “MyASUS” application on your PC.

   

2. Select the “Headset” icon on the left bar to access the “Customer Support” page.

   

3. On the upper set of options, choose “Live Updates.” Then, click on “Latest” just below it.
4. You will see a “BIOS Update For Windows” file. Download it.

   

5. Pick “Confirm.”
6. Choose the disk to save the file. Press “OK.”

   

7. Now, open the BIOS Utility File.”

   

8. Select “Yes.”

   

9. Hit “OK.”

   

10. Go with “Next.”

    

11. Mark the box next to “Install” and click “Next.”

    

12. Your updates should be ready to install. Hit the “Install” button.

    

13. Proceed with “OK.”

    

14. Pick “Yes, Restart The Computer Now” and press “Finish.”

    

15. The PC will now restart into the BIOS mode.
16. Select “Yes.”

    

17. The BIOS update will be initiated.

    

Dell

1. Open the Dell Support page on your browser.
2. Use the “Support Assistant” to look up your computer model.
3. Select the detected results.

   

4. Go to the “Drivers And Downloads” tab.

   

5. Click on “Find Drivers.”

   

6. Set your “Operating System” in the dedicated box. Then, pick “BIOS” in the category box.
7. It will bring the available BIOS update files to your screen.
8. Download the latest file.

   

9. Launch after the installation.

   

10. Grant the permission with “Yes.”

    

11. Now, press the “Update” button.

    

12. It will begin with “Loading Firmware Data.”

    

13. Your system should restart now for the updates to take place.

Also Read: How To Remove GPU From The Motherboard

HP

1. Open HP Support.
2. Select your product.

   

3. Now, “Let HP Detect Your Product.”

   

4. Once you see the update files, download the most recent one.

   

5. Open after the installation.

   

6. Grant permissions by choosing “Yes.”

   

7. Pick “Next.”

   

8. “Agree” to the terms and go with “Next.”

   

9. Again, pick “Next.”

   

10. Put a mark beside “Update.” Then, choose “Next.”

    

11. A dialogue box says, “The BIOS File Was Prepared Successfully.”
12. Hit the blue “Restart Now” button.

    

13. Choose “Apply Update Now.”

    

14. The updates will start shortly.

    

Clear CMOS

The issue can be solved by shutting off their PC and clearing the CMOS. The process benefits the computer by resetting the BIOS, fixing hardware connectivity issues, and booting problems. Below, I have jotted the general steps to this process.

1. Shut down your PC. Once completely turned off, disconnect the power source.
2. Now, access the RAM module by opening the computer case.
3. Pull out the RAM module from its dedicated slot on the motherboard.
4. Find the button “CMOS” or “Clear CMOS” and hold it for about 5 seconds.
5. Next, firmly insert the RAM module in its slot, assemble the computer case, and turn on your PC.
6. Inspect if the DRAM light is fixed.

Replace CMOS Battery

Again, open the computer case and locate the CMOS battery on the motherboard. Pull the battery out of its slot and insert a new one to solve the DRAM light problem. Be cautious that your computer remains unplugged during the process.

Ensure Proper CPU And Cooler Installation

If you still fail to make the DRAM light disappear, verify that the CPU and CPU Coolers are seated correctly in their slots. Also, ensure the fans work properly to dissipate the heat evenly. Learn how to clean the PC fans to ensure smooth operations.

Replace RAM

Faulty RAM enables the DRAM light on your motherboard. Change your RAM modules since the current one may be damaged or incompatible with the motherboard. 

Replace The Motherboard

Replacing the motherboard is the final fix I have in store for you. It is likely that your motherboard is damaged, which is giving rise to the DRAM light problem. Double-check that it is compatible with your PC and its components, among other things to consider, before buying a motherboard.

Different Colors Of DRAM Light And Their Meaning

The DRAM light may light up in different colors because each color indicates a specific issue with the RAM. I will discuss this below.

• Green: Everything is perfect with the RAM, and you do not have to worry about any issues.
• Yellow: It indicates the initialization of the RAM and will go off once the process is complete.
• Red: A red light on the motherboard means something is wrong with the RAM; you should attend to it urgently. Look for RAM placement problems or faulty modules or slots. 
• Orange: It means that the RAM is currently not in use. Specific fixes are mentioned in our guide to help you solve the orange light on the motherboard.
• White: It signs that the system is currently using the RAM.

Final Words

These are all the ways I have for you to solve the DRAM light on the motherboard issue. Remember that you should be vigilant while handling hardware parts on your computer since one wrong move can damage the entire system. Consult a hardware technician if you are unsure of the process.