One of my two Kingston ValueRAM 2GB sticks seemed to be causing blue screens in Windows XP. After running with one stick of memory for almost a month, I concluded the other was defective.[1. I separately tested both sticks of memory with Memtest86+ 1.70 (via Ultimate Boot CD 4.11). But, the latest version of Memtest86+ is 4.00. I was five versions behind. Maybe if used that version, it might’ve definitively found errors. Oh well.]
I requested RMA service with the cross ship option (just for kicks).
Time line:
- 3/22/2010 8:04 PM – Requested RMA number
- 3/26/2010 1:33 PM – RMA request processed
- 3/26/2010 4:34 PM – Memory shipped via UPS Ground from Anaheim
- 3/29/2010 11:40 AM – Memory delivered
Summary:
- It took three business days for my RMA request to be approved (the RMA page said it’d take two business days).
- Kingston Technology shipped my memory locally, so that only took one business day.
- I didn’t need proof of purchase/receipt since Kingston’s ValueRAM has a lifetime warranty.
- The new memory stick is a bit shorter.
Other than the extra day waiting for my RMA request, the whole process was painless. If I went with standard replacement, it’d take a few more days waiting for them to receive my defective memory. I didn’t mind the temporary hold on my credit card.
I think it’s safe to say that you can be confident when buying Kingston Technology system memory.
All Narfed Up 