Chosen Solution
just got a computer in that went to grey screen + 3 beeps, found out the right ram slot was no good, so i pulled it, it started, then i put in a HD and began to install a new OS onto the new hard drive. the installation errored out twice saying it couldnt install about halfway through. after restart, the computer stopped working completely with 3 beeps plus black screen, i tried multiple ram sticks on both sides with the same result. did the good RAM slot suddenly go bad? what can i do to fix this, there is literally no explanation for why it went bad? thanks
I am assuming those multiple sticks were of the correct ram for your computer. That being said 3 beeps is definitely an indication of a ram problem and you have made the proper checks. At this point unless someone else has a better idea I would suggest letting a “genius” at a Apple store check it out. Be prepared for them to suggest a logic board replacement. Good luck.
There is a slim chance that your ram slots are corroded / dirty. Seen that a few times on MacBooks. Blow them out with compressed air if you haven’t done that already. You can also try to clean them (very carefully) with a stiff brush. I’d take the logicboard out for this operation.
Just had the same issue with a 2010 model, swapped RAM, still n/g. Sadly the battery uses a 3 blade screwdriver which we didn’t have so I took a chance and disconnected what appears to be the power to the motherboard - a black connector that has several black wires not in a ribbon which is right next to the battery. Reconnected that, put the bottom case back on to satisfy the little switches that tell the cpu that the bottom case is off and it powered up. Hope it lasts, EU doesn’t have a screwdriver or the patience.
