MacBook Pro Special Report follow-up #7: Repeated system freezes or sudden restarts -- Checking for bad RAM

Repeated system freezes or sudden restarts -- Checking for bad RAM Yesterday we reported on an issue where some MacBook Pros suddenly restart during routine operation.

In one user's case, the problem was bad RAM.

The reader writes:

"I have a week 7, 2.0GHz MacBook Pro that I ordered with 2 GB of RAM. I was experiencing random reboots, kernel panics, application crashes and failed application startups.

"I ran the extended hardware tests off the special 'D' partition of install DVD #1, and it told me there was a memory problem. After removing one SODIMM, the tests succeeded. After swapping the SODIMMs (still only one in), the test failed.

"I ordered a replacement SODIMM from Apple, popped it in, and haven't experienced any random reboots or other such issues since.'"

If you are experiencing similar issues, try running the Apple Hardware Test. Insert the Mac OS X installation disc in your Mac, then restart while holding the D key. Run the appropriate tests.

if an error occurs (or even if one doesn't if you'd like to be sure), try removing one, then rebooting and checking for persistence of the problem. Then remove the other one (replacing the first removed module), restart and check for persistence of the issue, i.e. test for bad RAM by leaving only one module in the unit at a time.

If one of the modules is bad, contact Apple or the appropriate vendor for a replacement.

Feedback? Late-breakers@macfixit.com.

Previous coverage:

• MacBook Pro Special Report follow-up #6: Clock speed of ATI X1600 card; Shift key not recognized; more
• MacBook Pro Special Report follow-up #5: Apple addressing issues with new revisions; 'Whine' noise petition
• MacBook Pro Special Report follow-up #4: More on loose batteries, powering off
• MacBook Pro Special Report follow-up #3: Replacement units shipping with improved right speakers; Wake-from-sleep issues
• MacBook Pro Special Report follow-up #2: Cannot connect to LEAP networks
• MacBook Pro Special Report follow-up: More abnormal noises from some units

For more coverage, see our MacBook Pro special report.

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