Computer won't recognize the new RAM chip I installed...

[Guest]

System is a HP 511 w running Windows XP. I installed a new 256 DIMM ram chip and when I restarted it still lists it as having only 128 (the original amount of ram). How do I get the computer to recognize the new hardware? I did go through the hardware wizzard and it could not find the ram, nor could I find it in the options available.

 

[Fouad]

Try these steps:-

1. Is the RAM functional? Check it on another PC.
2. You didn't mention if you had removed your older RAM
(128MB). If not removed, try removing it first and put in
place only this new chip.
3. Your BIOS may have to be flashed (same one again or
new one) in order to make it respond to the new entry.
4. If both RAMs are in place, try swapping the slots for
both.

 

[Sharon F]

System is a HP 511 w running Windows XP. I installed a new 256 DIMM ram
chip and when I restarted it still lists it as having only 128 (the
original amount of ram). How do I get the computer to recognize the
new hardware? I did go through the hardware wizzard and it could not
find the ram, nor could I find it in the options available.

Does the POST results show the added RAM? If I remember correctly, HP hides
the POST screen with their logo. May be able to ditch it by pressing ESC or
you will need to go into BIOS to turn it off. As long as you're in BIOS,
may as well see what the config screens are saying about the added RAM.

If the new memory is not recognized at this level, XP won't see it either.
Once the system is acknowledging the added RAM and there are no other
problems with it, it will show up automatically in Windows. No extra steps
needed. However, if it still ends up missing in Windows, the RAM is faulty
or the wrong kind and should be replaced.

 

[Alex Nichol]

Does the POST results show the added RAM? If I remember correctly, HP hides
the POST screen with their logo. May be able to ditch it by pressing ESC or
you will need to go into BIOS to turn it off. As long as you're in BIOS,
may as well see what the config screens are saying about the added RAM.

If the new memory is not recognized at this level, XP won't see it either.
Once the system is acknowledging the added RAM and there are no other
problems with it, it will show up automatically in Windows. No extra steps
needed. However, if it still ends up missing in Windows, the RAM is faulty
or the wrong kind and should be replaced.

And check that it has seated properly in the socket. It isn't that easy
to ensure good contact, especially if it is not easily accessible

 

[Sharon F]

And check that it has seated properly in the socket. It isn't that easy
to ensure good contact, especially if it is not easily accessible

Good point, Alex!