Ram question

[Guest]

I have read just about all ram questions to try to figure my problem. I have
loaded aida 32.
My problem is that I have 3 slots for memory. I have loaded a 64, 128, and
256. My computer is only reading a 64, 128, 128. My question is, is this
the only amount of memory I will ever be able to add. Or is there something
I can do to be able to use the 256 memory I purchased.

 

[DJ Borell]

Make sure you've actually got a 256 MB stick of RAM. This would not be the
first time I've heard of someone that got less than they paid for.

Also, confirm that your motherboard will support the amount of memory
installed (though, unless it's pretty old, it should.)

Try memtest. You can download it here:

http://www.memtest86.com/

 

[Guest]

aida 32 states I only have slots for 1 64, 1 128, and a third slot for 128.
My question is will I be able to utilize my 256. It is actually a 256. I
have downloaded everything that tells me what my memory is. Belarc, and
aida32. Please tell me is there anything I can do to expand my memory from
what it is.l

 

[Mike Hall \(MS-MVP\)]

Terri

You are probably suffering from memory mismatch.. take out the 128 and 64
and see how much memory is recognised with only the '256' installed..

Report back to this thread..

 

[Guest]

It was like only 192 its really weird. I put only the 256, then added one of
the other two. It will only add up to 320 total no matter what I do.

 

[Ricky]

Sounds like at least 64 MB is shared with the video card.

 

[Mike Hall \(MS-MVP\)]

Terri

If your system is only showing 192mb available with the 256 installed, then
your system is allocating 64mb of the physical ram to the AGP Video..

Installation of the 128 then gives you 320 (192 + 128).. that is normal for
a system like yours.. the other 64 is either being sidestepped because it is
essentially incompatible, or it doesn't work at all, or your system is fussy
about the order in which the memory is installed..

Try the following.. from slot 1.. 256, 128, 64.. see what registers.. then
reverse the order and look again.. then try the 128 on its own.. do NOT
attempt the 64 on its own.. if the AGP is determined to take memory, your
system probably will not start, either because XP needs 64mb at least to run
and because your video may not operate at all..

Report back with your findings..

--
Mike Hall
MVP - Windows Shell/user

 

[Guest]

but how do I fix this problem......

Sounds like at least 64 MB is shared with the video card.

 

[Guest]

No matter how I load them in the slots front back sideways, it will only read
up to 320mb total it reads 64, 128, 128. Even though it is loaded 64, 128,
256..... It seems to only want to read 320. Is there anything I can do to
make it read the correct amount that I loaded which is 448 I believe.

 

[Mike Hall \(MS-MVP\)]

Terri

It seems like the 64mb stick is not working.. take it out..

Of the remaining sticks, you have a 128 and a 256 = 384mb

BUT, you video needs memory too, and your system is the type that takes RAM
and allocates it to video..

If you want more memory than 320mb, buy another stick that is IDENTICAL to
either the 128 or 256, and fit it in place of the 64 that are going to
remove..

Other than that, there is NOTHING to fix..

You could get more RAM available by reducing the amount that the system BIOS
allocates to video, BUT that is just taking memory away from one part and
giving it another..

Go to this site and download the FREE home version of Everest.. the program
will tell you all about your system, including memory type..

You might also like to go to www.crucial.com where you can find out what
memory type is ok for your computer..

--
Mike Hall
MVP - Windows Shell/user

 

[Alex Nichol]

My problem is that I have 3 slots for memory. I have loaded a 64, 128, and
256. My computer is only reading a 64, 128, 128. My question is, is this
the only amount of memory I will ever be able to add.

If you are checking with the system information tool (MSInfo32) it is
unreliable on this. Check on the General page of Control Panel - System

That said, mixing such different modules can cause trouble. I would try
without the 64, and also consult the motherboard/machine manual as to
what mix of modules can be mounted in which slots.

 

[Guest]

Thank you this info seems to at least make some kind of sense. So if I
purchase 256 more I should get 256, 256,and 64 because 64a of my 128 will be
taken up by vga...... yes. Let me know if this is correct. Again thank you.

 

[Mike Hall \(MS-MVP\)]

Terri..

Your system will show that you have 256 256 128 sticks installed.. total
PHYSICAL RAM = 640

Available RAM will show the total of the sticks less 64mb which has been
allocated to the AGP video.. 640 - 64 = 576

There is nothing wrong with that..

What you must ensure is that any memory purchased must be compatible with
your system..

--
Mike Hall
MVP - Windows Shell/user

 

[Guest]

I will try to load another 256 this weekend. I believe I should be able to.
When I ran one of the programs it stated that I should add more memory to my
system. Go figure.....
thanks again...

 

[Mike Hall \(MS-MVP\)]

Terri

The optimum level for memory assuming general usage is 512mb.. for shifting
graphics, 1gb.. you will be slightly above optimum..

Good luck..

--
Mike Hall
MVP - Windows Shell/user