B130 DDR2 memory problem

Question

I just installed a Transcend 1GB memory into my laptop that came with Hynix 256Mb. Both of the memory is suppose to be at 533Mhz, but it shows 400Mhz. I know about that issue already, I feel cheated also. So in bios it shows that I have 1280MB at 400MHz. But when I go to control panel, then system. The system properties window will show, under the computer section:         Intel(R) Pentium(R) M                                                     Intel(R) Pentium(R) M processor 1.73GHz                                                        processor 1.73GHz 794 MHz, 1.24 GB of RAM                                             1.73 GHz, 1.24 GB of RAM Physical Address Extension                                           Physical Address Extension   When I go to the system properites window again, the 794 MHz will change to 1.73 GHz. Then it'll keep changing between these two numbers, everytime I open up the system properties page. Can someone tell me if this is normal or not. If not, how can I fix this? I asked a dell person and he/she said 794 MHz is equal to 1.73 GHz. I was going to ask for a further explanation, but I could not connect to the chat anymore.

gamesetmatch247 · Answer

I just installed the 1GB Transend memory too ... got it from Newegg ... bet you did too. I'm getting the same result from 'system' page ... 1.73mhz to 794mhz ... back and forth ... how odd?!? Apparently these 'new' B130's are the equivalent to a guinea pig ... brand new and untested in the real world.

megafuji · Answer

Thanks for the clarification. I will do some research on this subject.

chadteck · Answer

This behavior is normal for a processor with SpeedStep.  SpeedStep alters the processor operating state according to how much processing power is needed.  When the laptop is idle, you will find that the CPU will run at 800MHz, and when needed the speed will jump to 1733MHz.  The system properties window is pretty quirky when it comes to displaying clock speeds of SpeedStep enable processors; you might want to try using a program that can monitor real time CPU speed.  CPU-Z should work for this.

chadteck · Answer

You're welcome.  I guess I should have also added that the reason SpeedStep lowers the clock speed (and voltage) is to save power and extend battery life when processing power is not needed.  Also, if you take out the extra RAM you installed, you will see that your laptop behaves the same way... you just might not have noticed before.

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