Adding RAM causes problems

[Guest]

HI!

I got a new computer with Pentium IV 2.26 G; 128 MB RAM and 40 GB HD. I
performed a clean instal of Windows XP Pro, and downloaded SP2. I wanted to
increase the RAM, so got a 256 MB Stick and installed it. However, on start
up, I get the message "windows did not start successfully". It gives me
options of starting in safe mode, normal mode and others. The computer
refuses to start in any mode, even in safe mode. The RAM is DDR and operates
at 333.

Please help!

Vin

 

[Rich Barry]

Vin, did you try the new Ram with the old Ram removed? Did you try a
different Memory slot.

 

[Guest]

Yes, I tried everything you suggested - run with the old RAM removed and a
different slot (there are only 2 slots). Still, nothing worked.

 

[Guest]

On most newer computers,you can't simply add ram like you did,both ram
cards need to be of the same size,mhz,and if 4 slots exist,usually you'd
install 2 cards to the #1 and #3 slot.Or #2 and # 4 slot.

 

[Guest]

What does the manual for your new computer say about memory upgrades?
Memory module requirements? Did you look for a diagram on the OEM's web site?
Try removing the stick of 128mb and place the 256mb chip in it's slot, you
may need two of the same kind 2x 256mb PC2700 (DDR 333) If the stick of 128mb
is PC2100 (DDR 266) you will have problems unless you pair it up properly.
Hopefully, if all else fails you can just remove the new ram and your system
will boot up again..
j;-)

 

[Yves Leclerc]

DDR RAM memory is very tricky. If you try to combine a different speed
rated module with an older RAM module, you can get the error you got. Make
sure that BOTH the 128MB and the 256MB are rated for the same speed.
Also, there are motherboards that will only take "paired" RAM modules (ie:
2 256MB units.) Without more details about your PC, check out the
motherboard manual/web site for supported RAM configurations.

 

[Ron Martell]

HI!

I got a new computer with Pentium IV 2.26 G; 128 MB RAM and 40 GB HD. I
performed a clean instal of Windows XP Pro, and downloaded SP2. I wanted to
increase the RAM, so got a 256 MB Stick and installed it. However, on start
up, I get the message "windows did not start successfully". It gives me
options of starting in safe mode, normal mode and others. The computer
refuses to start in any mode, even in safe mode. The RAM is DDR and operates
at 333.

Please help!

Vin

Go to www.crucial.com and check out their RAM specs for your exact
computer/motherboard make and model.

Good luck

Ron Martell Duncan B.C. Canada
--
Microsoft MVP
On-Line Help Computer Service
http://onlinehelp.bc.ca

In memory of a dear friend Alex Nichol MVP
http://aumha.org/alex.htm