Adding Memory to XP Home

[roger-y1]

I have a computer running XP home with 512 MB of RAM. I have purchased an
additional 512 MB module but when I install it XP fails to boot, Even running
setup from the CD fails. The system BIOS correctly identifies the total
amount of memory.

Can anyone advise what the problem might be.

 

[DL]

Incompatible memory or failed module
Not all memory is equal
You can try replacing existing memory with the new module to see if it boots

 

[Malke]

I have a computer running XP home with 512 MB of RAM. I have purchased an
additional 512 MB module but when I install it XP fails to boot, Even
running setup from the CD fails. The system BIOS correctly identifies the
total amount of memory.

Can anyone advise what the problem might be.

The RAM must be correct for the motherboard. Yours apparently isn't. If you
have an OEM machine (Dell, HP, etc.) go to www.crucial.com and use their
'memory finder" tool to determine exactly what type/amount/configuration of
RAM you need. If you have a generic/home-built computer, refer to the
motherboard manual or the motherboard mftr.'s website for specs.

Malke

 

[Paul]

I have a computer running XP home with 512 MB of RAM. I have purchased an
additional 512 MB module but when I install it XP fails to boot, Even running
setup from the CD fails. The system BIOS correctly identifies the total
amount of memory.

Can anyone advise what the problem might be.

Run memtest86+ from memtest.org . You should not boot Windows
as your first test. Your first test should be a memory test
program, to verify all the memory is seen, and that the
memory is error free.

The program is available to run from a floppy, or you can
burn a CD with the test on it. Memtest86+ is self-booting,
so no other environment is needed.

If you post back, please include the make and model number
of the computer. If you built the computer from parts,
indicate the make and model number of the motherboard
used in the build.

Paul

 

[smlunatick]

I have a computer running XP home with 512 MB of RAM. I have purchased an
additional 512 MB module but when I install it XP fails to boot, Even running
setup from the CD fails. The system BIOS correctly identifies the total
amount of memory.

Can anyone advise what the problem might be.

With the very limited details given (PC make / model) we can not give
precise guidance to fix this.

One common cause is that a lot of motherboard manufacturers tend to
place the RAM slot near the IDE hard drive cable connectors. This is
one possible reason why XP and the CD will not start up correctly.

 

[Bruce Chambers]

I have a computer running XP home with 512 MB of RAM. I have purchased an
additional 512 MB module but when I install it XP fails to boot, Even running
setup from the CD fails. The system BIOS correctly identifies the total
amount of memory.

Can anyone advise what the problem might be.

It is absolutely essential that any new RAM module(s) be fully
compatible with both the motherboard and/or any other RAM module(s)
already in the system. Additionally, there are sometimes jumper
switches on older motherboards that need to be reset for new RAM
configurations. Consult your motherboard's manual or the manufacturer's
web site for specific instructions and compatibility requirements.

If you cannot lay your hands upon the computer's manual and the
manufacturer doesn't provide a support web site, you can use these
utilities to help determine the correct type of RAM needed:

SiSoft's Sandra
http://www.sisoftware.co.uk/index.php?dir=&location=sware_dl&lang=en

Belarc Advisor
http://www.belarc.com/free_download.html

Unlimited Possibilities' AIDA32
http://forum.aumha.org/overflow/aida32.zip

Also, Crucial Memory's web site (www.crucial.com) has a database to
help to find the right RAM for your specific make and model computer
and/or motherboard. (Incidentally, Crucial is the only company from
which I ever buy RAM. I've never been disappointed.)



--

Bruce Chambers

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