The Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool in the Windows Vista operating system is useful for checking the integrity of the computer's memory. Follow these steps to use it:

1. With the computer off (and not in the Standby state), press and hold the F9 key.

2. Turn the computer ON, while continuing to press the F9 key. Release the F9 key when the Windows Boot Manager menu appears.

If Windows Vista starts, or re-appears from the Standby state, select Shut Down from the Start Menu, and repeat steps 1 and 2.

3. Press the tab key to highlight Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool, and press Enter. The Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool will start checking the computer's memory.

Optionally, press the F1 key to review or change memory test options. To interrupt the memory test, press the ESC key.

Once the memory test is finished, Windows Vista will start automatically. Click the error report in the Task Bar (shown in the picture below) to review the results of the memory test.

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