I checked it says 4GB, 4 slots with 1GB each, but in reality it has 2GB in each slot (8GB total). I tried a bios update, but I had to logged in as Admin. Did it anyway but still shows 4GB. Current version BIOS is A07 (2-25-09) there was a update from (A07-2011 which I downloaded. In the system drop down menu there is no option for Windows 8.1 OS 64 bit. So I chose Windows Vista 64bit., Could that be the problem?

Hmmm, strange,

Perhaps try drop down to two 2gb sticks, see if it still says 4gb ram, then go to three and see if it updates at all.

Thanks for the response, I tried 2G and it start up indicated a memory change, (too slow), then 2G more showed 4G, added all 4 sticks 2G each, still only shows 4G total?? As mentioned the BIOS was updated through Dell support downloads.

Ram must be in Pairs and its NOT 1  THEN 2 THEN 3 THEN 4.

Its 1 THEN 3  THEN 2 THEN 4  

This is why the Ejector ears are Color coded.

 

 

Thanks for the input, I tried as you suggested by still not recognized as 8GB still indicates 4GB of memory. Even in the setup mode it shows 1Gb in each bay.,