Abstract: A method of testing at least a selected portion of system memory for a microprocessor system is disclosed, the microprocessor system having burst mode capability to transfer data values between the microprocessor and the system memory via a system bus. The method includes the steps of: writing at least a selected portion of system memory with a predetermined test pattern using the burst mode capability of the microprocessor system; reading back values from the at least a selected portion of system memory using the burst mode capability of the microprocessor system; and comparing the values read from the at least a selected portion of system memory with the predetermined test pattern written.