I have a Dell/Clone Computer that I have purchased used from a pawn dealer. It is basically a Dell L700cx in a clone case. Since I have owned it I have upgraded the RAM from 256 to 382 MB, Upgraded the HD from the Stock 12 GB to a 160 GB and the OS from Win ME to Win XP Pro. My problem is that every time the computer boots and the RAM is check by the BIOS, this process takes forever(at least one minute ). It has to be the slowest RAM check I have ever seen. Can the spped of this check be improved ???

RAM mismatch?

There should be an option in the BIOS to skip the BOOT up RAM check. Look in the BIOS setting for fast memory check or skip memory check or something similar. The BIOS memory check is a rudimentary memory check at the best of times. I have never know it come up with an error except with the most gross errors which will probably stop the computer from booting in any case. For a real reliable memory check, download and run Memtest/86. Stuart

i have seen on some computers when it is checking the ram, it says at bottom of screen Press ESC to skip Ram check. Pressing the ESC key then gets it past the RAM check to speed things up. Does that work on yours? (if nothing in BIOS/Setup to disable it)

Well if it is any more help I have Intel BIOS version A09. It does have a Quick boot option but this still makes the computer go through a RAM Check (i just tried it) with no option to skip the check. Would a BIOS Update fix it ?

also look for a diagnostics something and make sure it is disbaled in boot (if there). Please keep us updated so we know if we helped you or not.

well found out that the quick boot option did take the 1st time. I re-selected it and now it skips the RAM Check it shortenup the boot time thanks all.