Troubleshoot Upgraded RAM sticks to 2x8GB but causes slow blink, a failed boot

[JakeXPMan]

Briefly explain your current issue(s)

New RAM installing causes a slow yellow light blinking, failure to boot up.

Steps taken to resolve, but have been unsuccessful

No steps taken yet. Old RAM successfully put and boot fully back onto Windows 11.

Your current Antivirus

Windows Defender

I powered down my newly purchased used Dell Precision T1700 (Windows 11 500gb SSD) Removed the plug, held down Power button 30 secs. Then removed the previous 2 4GB RAM sticks of 1.5 volts, (Micron brand) touched the metal case first (static precautions) I've installed RAM a few times in the past, no issue at all, but
I then got the 2 2x8 GB sticks out, (both matching Kingston brand making 16gb upgrade from 8gb) 1.35 volts (supposed to fully work with Precision T1700) Installed them both in the EXACT slots the previous two were in, but the power went on and a SLOW blinking yellow.

I quickly put the original RAM back in the slots (removing the 2 news ones of course) and glad to say BOOT up just fine and diagnostic shows all good, no errors.

It's meant to be a fresh new RAM install with 1.35 volt sticks of 8GB each, same speed, latency and matching specs.
However the older RAM has higher volt sticks 1.5 each, is this set in BIOS typically, like the battery ?

Did I somehow accidently get the wrong type of RAM ? I highly doubt but let's see,

This is the exact RAM specs, 2 identical versions of this stick.
Kingston 8GB DDR3 DIMM PC3L-12800U (ASU1603DL1KBG/8G)
Key Compatibility Details: Taken from internet search

• Speed: 1600 MHz (PC3-12800).
• Type: DDR3/DDR3L DIMM (240-pin).
• Voltage: 1.35V (Low Voltage) or 1.5V.
• Max Capacity: Supports up to 32GB total (4 x 8GB) for most configurations, though some sources suggest up to 64GB (4x16GB) depending on processor.
• Configuration: Non-ECC Unbuffered DIMM is typically used

I am wondering if its worth the risks to experiment, but then again it could be an easy fix. I think I read Dell can be fussy when it comes to RAM sticks.

I bought the RAM lightly used, and pulled from a working system (was told), it looks very clean and normal from outside and came in its carrying case.
Any tips or incite welcome on this matter!
Thanks.

 

[JakeXPMan]

Something I found with AI, worth consideration, regarding the T1700 Workstation.

AI Overview

1.5V DDR3 RAM is indeed the standard, recommended, and most consistent voltage for the Dell Precision T1700, as it adheres to the JEDEC specification for DDR3 1600 MHz memory
. Using 1.5V RAM ensures stability, whereas using lower voltage (1.35V) or non-standard RAM may cause stability issues, as the T1700 is known to be sensitive to RAM specifications

 

[Bot]

Something I found with AI, worth consideration, regarding the T1700 Workstation.

AI Overview

1.5V DDR3 RAM is indeed the standard, recommended, and most consistent voltage for the Dell Precision T1700, as it adheres to the JEDEC specification for DDR3 1600 MHz memory
. Using 1.5V RAM ensures stability, whereas using lower voltage (1.35V) or non-standard RAM may cause stability issues, as the T1700 is known to be sensitive to RAM specifications

About that “AI Overview” claim

I wouldn’t treat that summary as reliable on its own. It mixes a true statement with an unproven conclusion:

• True: Standard DDR3 is 1.5V, and DDR3-1600 “PC3-12800” is a common JEDEC spec.
• Not something that can be assumed true without sources: “The T1700 is known to be sensitive and may have stability issues with 1.35V.” I can’t verify that claim as a general rule, and it doesn’t match how DDR3L is normally supposed to work.

In general, DDR3L (PC3L) modules are designed to be backward compatible because many can operate at 1.5V as well as 1.35V. However, there are edge cases where a module labeled PC3L behaves like “1.35V-only” (or has SPD/organization quirks), and then a system that effectively runs memory at 1.5V-only may refuse to POST with it. That’s plausible, but it needs to be confirmed with real module details, not an AI summary.

What you can conclude from your real-world testing so far

Since the Kingston 2x8GB works in the Inspiron 3847 and passes Dell diagnostics there:

• It strongly suggests the sticks are not dead-on-arrival.
• It strongly suggests you’re dealing with a compatibility/initialization issue specific to the Precision T1700 (or less commonly a slot/contact issue on that board).

Practical next step if you want the most “certain” fix

If your goal is to stop experimenting and just make the T1700 work reliably, the safest path is to use memory that is explicitly listed/known-good for the Precision T1700 (for example, a Crucial/Micron kit that states T1700 compatibility, or Dell-qualified part numbers), and stick to:

• DDR3-1600 (or DDR3L-1600 that is confirmed to run at 1.5V)
• UDIMM
• Non-ECC

This avoids the common workstation/OEM issue where two “PC3L-12800U” sticks from different internal variants behave differently at POST.

Key takeaway

The “T1700 must use 1.5V and 1.35V is inherently unstable” statement shouldn’t be accepted without solid vendor documentation. Your symptoms fit “this specific kit doesn’t initialize properly on the T1700” more than they fit “DDR3L is bad in general,” and the most dependable resolution is to swap to a kit that’s explicitly validated for that workstation.

 

[stonjean633]

Something I found with AI, worth consideration, regarding the T1700 Workstation.

AI Overview

1.5V DDR3 RAM is indeed the standard, recommended, and most consistent voltage for the Dell Precision T1700, as it adheres to the JEDEC specification for DDR3 1600 MHz memory
. Using 1.5V RAM ensures stability, whereas using lower voltage (1.35V) or non-standard RAM may cause stability issues, as the T1700 is known to be sensitive to RAM specifications

There you go. Picky board.
Dell got history on being choosy on RAM sticks unlike the Taiwanese brands.

 

[Bot]

There you go. Picky board.
Dell got history on being choosy on RAM sticks unlike the Taiwanese brands.

It’s fair to say OEM workstations (including Dell) can be “choosier” about RAM than many retail motherboards, but I’d phrase the reason more precisely than “1.35V is unstable.”

What “picky board” usually means in practice
Dell systems can refuse to POST with certain modules even when the headline specs match, typically due to one (or more) of these:

• SPD / JEDEC table differences (how the module advertises timings/voltage to the BIOS)
• Module organization (1Rx8 vs 2Rx8, chip density, etc.)
• ECC/registered confusion (less likely in your case, but always worth verifying from the sticker/SPD)
• Firmware memory training behavior (some BIOSes are less tolerant of “odd” SPD data)

So “Dell is picky” is often true, but it’s not always specifically about DDR3L (1.35V) being “bad.”

About the 1.5V vs 1.35V claim

• DDR3 (PC3) is 1.5V standard.
• DDR3L (PC3L) is designed to run at 1.35V, and many DDR3L sticks are also compatible at 1.5V.
• The problematic edge case is when a PC3L module effectively behaves like 1.35V-only or has unusual SPD entries; then a system that trains/drives memory in a way the module doesn’t like may fail to POST.

That lines up with what’s happening here: the RAM works in the Inspiron but not in the Precision, which is classic “platform-specific compatibility,” not proof that “DDR3L is unstable.”

Most productive next step
If the goal is a guaranteed working upgrade with minimal more testing, the best move is to switch to a 2x8 GB kit that is explicitly listed as compatible with the Precision T1700 (Crucial/Micron compatibility finder, or Dell-qualified part numbers). In OEM systems, that compatibility list matters more than the generic spec sheet.

Bottom line
“Dell can be choosy” is a reasonable takeaway, but I wouldn’t anchor it on an AI summary about voltage. The evidence you have points to a module-variant/SPD/organization compatibility issue, and choosing a kit validated for the T1700 is the most reliable fix.

 

[Halp2001]

If the modules are booting fine in the Inspiron, it’s clear they aren't damaged. The T1700 is just way more picky about RAM organization (that 'single-sided vs. double-sided' difference you noticed). What you’re seeing is purely a compatibility issue, not a hardware failure. You'll probably save yourself a lot of trouble by swapping them for single-sided (1Rx8) sticks.

 

[Bot]

If the modules are booting fine in the Inspiron, it’s clear they aren't damaged. The T1700 is just way more picky about RAM organization (that 'single-sided vs. double-sided' difference you noticed). What you’re seeing is purely a compatibility issue, not a hardware failure. You'll probably save yourself a lot of trouble by swapping them for single-sided (1Rx8) sticks.

It’s very likely a compatibility/initialization issue, but it’s not accurate to say it’s “clear” the modules aren’t damaged or that it’s “purely” compatibility.

A kit can boot and even pass basic diagnostics in one PC and still be:

• marginal (fails only under certain training/temperature/pattern conditions),
• a poor match for another board’s memory training/BIOS behavior,
• or incompatible due to SPD/JEDEC table differences, rank/chip density, etc.

About “single-sided vs double-sided” / 1Rx8 vs 2Rx8

You’re on the right track that module organization can matter. But “single-sided” does not always equal 1Rx8, and “double-sided” does not always equal 2Rx8. The only reliable way is to check:

• the module sticker (often explicitly shows 1Rx8 / 2Rx8), and/or
• SPD info in a tool like CPU‑Z (SPD tab) while the RAM is installed in the working Inspiron.

Also, swapping to 1Rx8 may help, but it’s not guaranteed. Some systems prefer 2Rx8; others accept both but are picky about specific module variants.

Most efficient way to avoid more trial-and-error

Since the T1700 is the machine that matters, the quickest “done” solution is to exchange for RAM that is explicitly listed as compatible with the Precision T1700 (Crucial/Micron compatibility list or Dell-qualified part numbers), matching:

• DDR3-1600 (PC3-12800)
• UDIMM
• Non-ECC (for i7)

If you still want to experiment before exchanging, the most conclusive next test remains: one new stick at a time in the primary T1700 slot after a full cold power drain/CMOS reset, then repeat with the other stick. If neither stick will POST alone in the primary slot, it’s very strong evidence the kit is simply the wrong variant for that workstation, even if it works elsewhere.

 

[ForgottenSeer 123960]

That was my thought, Bot's one stick at a time option. Never heard of the eraser option before

Rubbing an eraser on the RAM contacts removes surface oxidation to ensure a proper connection.

 

[Bot]

Rubbing an eraser on the RAM contacts removes surface oxidation to ensure a proper connection.

Yes—using an eraser on RAM “gold fingers” is an old technician trick intended to remove light surface film/oxidation and improve electrical contact.

That said, it’s not always the best first step on modern modules because the contacts are plated and you can do more harm than good if you’re too aggressive.

When it can help

• Older RAM that has been stored for a long time in a humid/dusty environment
• Visible discoloration/film on the contacts
• Intermittent no-POST that changes when the module is reseated

Risks / downsides

• Abrasive erasers can scratch or wear the contact plating.
• Eraser residue can be left behind and cause poor contact until cleaned off.
• If the issue is compatibility/SPD/training, cleaning contacts won’t change the outcome.

Safer approach (recommended order)

• Power off, unplug AC, and discharge (hold power button 15–30 seconds).
• Remove and firmly reseat the RAM (this alone “wipes” the contacts against the slot).
• If cleaning is needed, use 90%+ isopropyl alcohol on a lint-free swab/cloth and let it fully dry.
• If you still choose to use an eraser, use a clean, plain pencil eraser with very light pressure, then remove all residue and finish with isopropyl alcohol.

Bottom line
The eraser method can improve contact in some edge cases, but it should be used gently and only after simple reseating/IPA cleaning. For a system that refuses specific RAM but works with other sticks, compatibility remains the more common root cause than dirty contacts.

 

[JakeXPMan]

Dell Precision T1700
Update:

Got a 32gb RAM kit. A-Tech (SK hynix) modules on them. Did all the steps, Held down Power for 30 secs, grounded... seated RAM, slots 2, 4. Then 1 3. Pushed firm to a click on all 4 sticks. put side door back, plugged all in.

HIT Power

So far so good! Powers on (no yellow DRAM light) Booting up, showed the screen... MEMORY AMOUNT HAS CHANGED,
I hit F2, into BIOS settings... I see 8GB in all 4 slots non-ECC,

My main now question is, should I adjust or save something to do with the BIOS? Like, example to hit save, or do I just exit and the PC now has the new RAM info it needs (I see the RAM listed in the BIOS info now) ?

Thanks

 

[Halp2001]

If the BIOS is already correctly detecting 32GB across all four slots, you don't need to perform any manual adjustments. Dell Precision systems manage memory automatically and have already completed the 'training' for the new modules.

The best thing to do is exit using 'Save & Exit'. Even if you didn't change any settings, this confirms the new hardware inventory and prevents the 'Memory amount has changed' alert from appearing on the next boot.

Practical final steps:

1. Confirm in Windows: Open Task Manager and make sure all 32GB are showing up.
2. Test stability: Let the system complete a normal power cycle (shut down and turn back on).
3. Optional: For 100% peace of mind, press F12 at startup and run the 'Diagnostics' tool so the Dell firmware can verify that all four sticks are working perfectly under load.

 

[JakeXPMan]

I went ahead and left BIOS it didn't request a save or exit, so it must have saved the new RAM settings already. Which is fine!

1. Task Manager shows 31.9 GB RAM, 28 GB (3.9 gb currently in use with Windows 11)
2. Tried some Power cycles, reset and power down and turn back on again. The Power down and turn back on is very FAST to boot up desktop (first few boot ups was slow, probably adjusting to the RAM. The PC quick reset is still a noticeably slower process to bring up the desktop screen (not sure why) but still decent enough... maybe that's normal with much more RAM now for the Memory Controller to deal with?
3. Ran Diagnostics all green *PASSED TESTS*

Temp is about 8c warmer, but so is the weather outside... but having more RAM 8GB exchanged into 32GB.

If Dell Precision manages Memory settings (automatically) then I should be good to go from here.

 

[Halp2001]

Regarding your question about startup and restart: you can rest easy, it’s completely normal.

• Slower boot: With more RAM, the PC takes a few extra seconds to check everything before starting up.
• Restart vs. Shut Down: In Windows 11, “Shut Down” isn’t a full shutdown—it saves a copy of the system state (kernel) to the disk, so when you turn it back on it loads faster. “Restart,” on the other hand, clears the RAM, closes all processes, and forces the hardware to be checked from scratch. That’s why restart feels heavier.
• Temperature: More RAM modules mean a bit more heat, but as long as your fans don’t sound like jet turbines, you’re in the safe zone.

In short: your PC is now a heavy-duty truck. It takes a little longer to crank the engine, but it can handle anything you throw at it. Enjoy the upgrade!

 

[JakeXPMan]

Regarding your question about startup and restart: you can rest easy, it’s completely normal.

• Slower boot: With more RAM, the PC takes a few extra seconds to check everything before starting up.
• Restart vs. Shut Down: In Windows 11, “Shut Down” isn’t a full shutdown—it saves a copy of the system state (kernel) to the disk, so when you turn it back on it loads faster. “Restart,” on the other hand, clears the RAM, closes all processes, and forces the hardware to be checked from scratch. That’s why restart feels heavier.
• Temperature: More RAM modules mean a bit more heat, but as long as your fans don’t sound like jet turbines, you’re in the safe zone.

In short: your PC is now a heavy-duty truck. It takes a little longer to crank the engine, but it can handle anything you throw at it. Enjoy the upgrade!

Hi Halp, and yes all that you said checks out and good to know all these intricacies.

I didn't "fully" know the differences of Restart and Shut Down, but yeah that makes it clearer for me, the clearing of the RAM and checking scratch.
More RAM will run warmer I hear that, seems like the (stress test) probably was the reason for the extra added heat, as its back to the exact Celsius 30c again, when resting state at Windows 11 desktop, which is good news, but under gaming and workloads will be more though with 32GB vs 8GB.

Workstations handle heat well and the highest stress test the I7-4790, it was 71c. lowest was in 20c's. Much better then that other Optiplex PC.
I ran the WINDOWS MEMORY DIAGNOSTIC tool, and NO errors found. Dell Diagnostics also found nothing wrong, PC 100% good to go

Thanks, enjoying the PC here and getting things rolling with it. Opening programs, photos and the PAINT is nice and quick, compared to 8GB.
Been changing a few desktop settings, and adding things, going to be fun to make it the main gaming, work and internet browsing setup.

 

[JakeXPMan]

Dell Precision PC Update: May 2026

I updated the drivers, and Windows 11 (Active) runs fast and smoothly.
Boot up time even quicker, and reset is MUCH faster now, after the drivers and updates were installed and Just barely slower then the power on-boot, nice.