Confusion on RAM...

[Guest]

I recently installed another stick of 512 RAM, bringing my total physical
memory to 1024 MB. However, Windows is reporting that my Available Physical
Memory is 636.39 MB. This value also fluctuates, because only half an hour
ago it gave me a number that was 700+.

I was wondering if this was a problem, and if so, what may cause it, and how
to remedy the situation.

Thanks in advance.

 

[R. McCarty]

Are you getting this information from Task Manager ? To see the
total memory of your machine.
Click Start, Run (type) Winver [Press Enter]

 

[T. Waters]

The difference between total physical memory and Available physical memory
is memory being used. You did intend to use your memory sticks, didn't you?
If you would like to be even more confused, find out about Virtual Memory
and the Paging File on your hard drive:
Virtual Memory in Windows XP
http://aumha.org/win5/a/xpvm.htm

 

[Ken Blake]

In

I recently installed another stick of 512 RAM, bringing my
total
physical memory to 1024 MB. However, Windows is reporting that
my
Available Physical Memory is 636.39 MB.

"Available physical memory" is the amount of physical memory you
have (1024MB in your case) less the amount of memory in use. What
you are seeing is perfectly normal.

This value also fluctuates,
because only half an hour ago it gave me a number that was
700+.

Sure. The amount of memory in use varies all the time, depending
on what you're doing with your computer. In general, memory in
use constantly goes up, so available memory goes down. All
perfectly normal.

I was wondering if this was a problem, and if so, what may
cause it,
and how to remedy the situation.

There's nothing to remedy.

 

[Rick \Nutcase\ Rogers]

Hi,

In Task Manager, "Available physical memory" is that which is not currently
in use. "Total physical memory" reflects the actual amount installed.

--
Best of Luck,

Rick Rogers, aka "Nutcase" - Microsoft MVP

Associate Expert - WindowsXP Expert Zone

Windows help - www.rickrogers.org

 

[Guest]

Alright, thanks. I appreciate everyone's responses.

Take care!