Here is the page from the on-line service manual for the Studio XPS 9100; if you have specific questions, just post back:

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Memory Module(s)

Dell™ Studio XPS™ 9100 Service Manual

  Removing the Memory Module(s)

  Replacing the Memory Module(s)

WARNING: Before working inside your computer, read the safety information that shipped with your computer. For additional safety best practices information, see the Regulatory Compliance Homepage at www.dell.com/regulatory_compliance.

WARNING: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before removing the cover.

WARNING: Do not operate your computer with any cover(s) (including computer covers, bezels, filler brackets, front-panel inserts, etc.) removed.

CAUTION: Only a certified service technician should perform repairs on your computer. Damage due to servicing that is not authorized by Dell™ is not covered by your warranty.

Removing the Memory Module(s)

Follow the instructions in Before You Begin  <ADMIN NOTE: Broken link has been removed from this post by Dell>. 

1. Remove the computer cover (see Removing the Computer Cover).
   
   
2. Locate the memory module(s) on the system board (see System Board Components

   <ADMIN NOTE: Broken link has been removed from this post by Dell> ). 

   
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3. Press out the securing clip at each end of the memory module connector.
   
   

1. Grasp the memory module and pull it upwards.
   
   

If the memory module is difficult to remove, gently ease the memory module back and forth to remove it from the connector.

Replacing the Memory Module(s)

1. Follow the instructions in Before You Begin.  

   <ADMIN NOTE: Broken link has been removed from this post by Dell>

   
   
   
2. Press out the securing clip at each end of the memory module connector.
   
   

CAUTION: Only a certified service technician should perform repairs on your computer. Damage due to servicing that is not authorized by Dell™ is not covered by your warranty.

CAUTION: Do not install ECC memory modules.

CAUTION: If you remove your original memory module(s) from the computer during a memory upgrade, keep them separate from any new memory module(s) that you may have, even if you purchased the new memory module(s) from Dell™. If possible, do not pair an original memory module with a new memory module. Otherwise, your computer may not start properly. The recommended memory configurations are: matched memory module(s) installed in DIMM connectors 4, 5, and 6 and another matched memory module(s) installed in DIMM connectors 1, 2, and 3.

1. Align the notch on the bottom of the memory module with the tab in the connector.
   
   

CAUTION: To avoid damage to the memory module, press the memory module straight down into the connector while you apply equal force to each end of the memory module.

1. Insert the memory module into the connector until the memory module snaps into position.
   
   

If you insert the memory module correctly, the securing clips snap into the cutouts at each end of the memory module.

1. Replace the computer cover (see Replacing the Computer Cover).
   
   
2. Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and then turn them on.
   
   

If the message appears stating that memory size has changed, press to continue.

1. Log on to your computer.
   
   
2. Click Start , right-click Computer, and click Properties.
   
   
3. To verify that the memory is installed correctly, check the amount of memory (RAM) listed.

Yes, I had found that earlier but interpreting is a different matter. Have I placed the memory in the wrong places? Why am I only getting 12 gb of memory out of 16gb of chips?

Make sure not to mix an older 2gb module with a new 4gb one. They should be installed in matching threes. You have to match 4, 5, and 6. And 1,2,3. I would return the 4gb modules and stay with 2gb.

I have seen the manual, I have read the manual and I obviously don't nunderstand the manual because I have only 12gb of memory showing. I have 2gb in slots 1,2,3 and 4 and 4gb in slots 5 and 6. IS THIS CORRECT?

This is covered in your service manual. Here is the memory page: 

edit--I didn't see that Jack already covered this. How about checking if the memory modules you added are the same--speed, type, etc.- as the ones that are already installed. Reseat them. Look at the recommendations at crucial.com.

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