Memory Upgrade problem

Question

I recently upgraded my refurbed Dell Pre T3500 with 12 G memory. 3 sticks of 4g. I placed them in dims 1,2,3 and though my computer works ok every time I start it I get, Alert! Non-optimal memory population detected. populate Dimms as specified in the service manual. Strike F1 key to continue. F2 to run the setup utility. Press F5 to run onboard diagnostics. Any ideas what's happening? I ran the diagnostics. When I hit F1 it works good and somewhat normal? Thanks, Greg

ieee488 · Accepted Answer

12GB kit (4GBx3) Upgrade for a Dell Precision Workstation T3500 System (DDR3 PC3-12800, NON-ECC, )

Sold by: Crucial (Micron CPG)

I saw the chart you posted in the service manual and installed this memory in dims 1,2,3.

Thanks for your help, Greg

So, I am confused.

What changed?

RoHe · Accepted Answer

So, I am confused. Me too. Is it working now? Were you installing the modules in physical slots 1,2,3 rather than in three slots with matching retention clip color, eg., every other slot?

RoHe · Accepted Answer

Are you sure the new RAM is compatible and is working correctly? Are all 3 DIMMS identically matched? How much RAM is Windows seeing?

Possible motherboard problem?

You could try clearing BIOS:

Open BIOS setup and copy down all current settings
Power off, unplug
Press/hold power button for ~15 sec
Open case and remove motherboard battery
Press/hold power button for ~30 sec
Reinstall battery
Close case and reboot

ieee488 · Answer

What does the service manual say? Did you read it?

RoHe · Answer

T3500

TenSopSaxop · Answer

12GB kit (4GBx3) Upgrade for a Dell Precision Workstation T3500 System (DDR3 PC3-12800, NON-ECC, )

Sold by: Crucial (Micron CPG)

I saw the chart you posted in the service manual and installed this memory in dims 1,2,3.

Thanks for your help, Greg

TenSopSaxop · Answer

Yes it is working and showing I have 12G of memory installed but every time I start the computer I get that warning and have to hit F1. For some reason there is a problem. I have the 3 memory cards installed in dims 1,2,3 leaving 4,5,6 empty. Perhap I need to try a different configuration, like putting them in 4,5,6?

Thanks, Greg

TenSopSaxop · Answer

I finally found the problem. I did not install the memory in slots 1,2,3. I now have and everything is working great. Thanks for your help folks. Greg

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