Physical Memory

Question

I have 2 memory modules installed (a 128MB and a 256MB).  When I go into system setup when starting the computer, it says I have 64KB with 383MB of extended memory.  When I run system information from the system tools menu it tells me the my Total Physical Memory is only 256MB.  Also when I run the current configuration program on the Dell Support site it also tells me I only have 256MB.  Why is the other 128MB not showing up in the system information and when I run current configuration?   I have an Inspiron 5000 running Windows XP SP2   Thanks for any help you can give

Augie65 · Answer

Did you install both memory chips? If you did, the 128MB may not be seated good. You might try resetting both chips again. Slot 1 with 128, Slot2 with 256. This is the recommended positions for the chips. Did this just happen or was both memory recognized at sometime?

dleach · Answer

Both memory modules have been installed (128MB in Slot 1, 256MB in Slot 2) and they are both in properly.   When I was running Windows 98, Windows recognized that I had 384MB of memory.  It was until I formatted the harddrive and installed Windows XP that Windows doesn't recognize the 384MB.  Also I just ran a program called Tweak RAM Idle and it recognizes that I 384MB.

enigma-2 · Answer

Try removing one module and booting with one memory module at a time. See if either is defective.

dleach · Answer

I tried booting with each memory module by itself and it worked both times and the system information screen gave me the proper amount of phyiscal memory.  When I booted with both modules in, system information was still giving me only 256MB.  I right clicked on my computer and selected properties and it says there is 384MB.

enigma-2 · Answer

Very well could be a timing issue with the 128 module.   Make certain by checking the spec in your owners manual. Is it at all possible that you are installing a slower module (front-side bus) than that required?   Also, does YOUR system even accept a 128Mb module? (My Dell i8600 does not.)

aussiegeek · Answer

hmmm sounds strange. are both memory modules of the same type (i.e speed etc)? are they both the right type for your notebook? that's the only thing i can think of...

dleach · Answer

They were both working fine in Windows 98.  They worked fine when I removed the 128MB and booted with only the 256MB installed (and vice versa).  When I right click on my computer and click properties it shows my memory as 384MB.  In system information it shows 256MB.

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