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Q98419: Parity Errors Often Not Due to "Usual" Causes

Article: Q98419
Product(s): Microsoft LAN Manager
Version(s): 
Operating System(s): 
Keyword(s): 
Last Modified: 30-JUL-2001

SUMMARY
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Parity errors (for example, OS/2 = Trap 0002, Windows NT = F002) are often
blamed on bad machine memory when they actually are caused by other factors.

Many machines showing parity errors don't have bad (as in damaged) memory chips
in them; instead, they have memory that is being overspeeded, and if you replace
the suspected chips with chips of the same memory type, the problem is not
solved. Overspeeded memory becomes unreliable if it is not rated to handle the
CPU speed that the CPU and system clock are trying to run.

Parity errors also can result from a number of motherboard designs with bus
controllers that are defective as shipped from the factory. This problem is
generally limited to the "cheap off-brand clone" motherboards. That's one reason
they are so cheap: they don't work properly.

Loose-fitting SIMMS can also cause parity errors.

Before setting off on complicated and unnecessary substitutions or repairs, make
sure you find the true cause of a parity error.

Additional query words: 2.10 2.1 2.10a 2.1a 2.20 2.2

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