To clean RAM contacts, gently rub them with a clean pencil eraser, then wipe away the residue with a lint-free cloth. Finish by blowing off any leftover bits with compressed air. This simple method removes the thin layer of oxidation and dirt that builds up on the gold pins over time.

RAM sticks have gold-plated contacts along the bottom edge. These pins connect to the motherboard and send data between the memory chips and the rest of your computer. When oxidation or dust covers these contacts, the connection gets weaker. This can cause your computer to freeze, crash with a blue screen error, or fail to start at all.

Good to know: This same cleaning method works on graphics cards, PCIe expansion cards, M.2 SSDs, and any other component with gold edge connectors.

What You'll Need

Gather these tools before you start:

  • Phillips screwdriver (to open your computer case)
  • Clean pencil eraser (white or pink, not one covered in graphite)
  • Lint-free cloth or microfiber cloth
  • Compressed air can or air compressor
  • Anti-static wrist strap (optional but recommended)

Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace

  1. Turn off and unplug your computer. Disconnect all cables from the back of the case.
  2. Ground yourself. Touch the metal frame of your computer case to release any static electricity from your body. Better yet, wear an anti-static wrist strap.
  3. Open the case. Remove the side panel. If there's a lot of dust inside, clean it out first so you don't spread it onto your freshly cleaned RAM.

Step 2: Remove the RAM Sticks

  1. Find the RAM slots. They are long, narrow slots on the motherboard, usually near the CPU.
  2. Release the clips. Push down the small plastic clips at each end of the RAM slot. The RAM stick will pop up slightly.
  3. Pull out the RAM. Hold the stick by the edges and lift it straight up. Avoid touching the gold contacts with your fingers.

Step 3: Clean the Contacts

  1. Place the RAM on a flat surface. Use a clean, dry area like a table or desk.
  2. Rub with the eraser. Gently rub the gold contacts with short strokes. Go back and forth until you see the contacts look brighter and cleaner.
  3. Flip and repeat. RAM sticks have contacts on both sides. Turn it over and clean the other side the same way.
Using a pencil eraser to clean gold contacts on a RAM stick

Step 4: Remove the Eraser Residue

  1. Wipe the contacts. Use your lint-free cloth to wipe away all the eraser bits from the gold pins.
  2. Tap and blow. Gently tap the RAM stick on your work surface to shake loose any hidden particles. Then use compressed air to blow off any remaining dust or debris.

Step 5: Clean the RAM Slots

  1. Blow out the slots. Use compressed air to clean inside the RAM slots on your motherboard. Dust can build up in there too.
  2. Check with a flashlight. Shine a light into the slots to make sure no dust or debris is left behind.

Step 6: Put the RAM Back In

  1. Line up the notch. RAM sticks have a small gap in the contacts that only fits one way. Match it with the notch in the slot.
  2. Push down firmly. Press the RAM straight down into the slot. You should hear the clips click into place on both ends.
  3. Double check. Make sure the clips are fully locked and the RAM is seated evenly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Don't touch the gold contacts with your fingers. The oils and moisture from your skin can leave a film that causes connection problems.
  • Never use rubbing alcohol, window cleaner, or other liquids. These can damage the gold plating or leave residue that's worse than what you started with.
  • Don't use rough or abrasive materials. Only use a soft pencil eraser. Sandpaper, steel wool, or rough cloths will scratch off the gold plating.
  • Don't skip removing the eraser residue. Leftover eraser bits can block the connection just like dirt would.

When to Clean Your RAM

You don't need to clean RAM contacts often. Most people only need to do it when something goes wrong. Here are signs that your RAM might need cleaning:

  • Your computer won't start or shows a blank screen
  • You see random crashes or blue screen errors
  • Windows shows memory errors in the event log
  • Your computer beeps when you turn it on (this often means a RAM problem)
  • You just bought used RAM and want to make sure it works properly

If cleaning doesn't fix the problem, the RAM itself might be broken. You can test your memory using the built-in Windows Memory Diagnostic tool or a free program called MemTest86.

To avoid having to clean your RAM contacts often, keep dust out of your computer by using filters, maintaining positive air pressure, and cleaning your case regularly.