Computer question - max supported RAM?

Factual Questions
1

I run a PIII 500 (hey, it does what I need it to do), with 256MB of RAM. RAM, as you know, is really cheap right now, and I was thinking off adding another 256MB (I do have another slot). However, in checking the stats for my board, I see that it says 256MB max supported. What does this mean exactly? Was it not tested with over 256 so they don’t know how well it will work? Will it simply not work at all? Will it destroy my computer? Will it bring forth the end of the world? Thanks for the help!
-mak

2

It could mean one of two things:

  1. It will not recognize the extra memory. No matter how much you put in, only 256Mb will be used. (Assuming you are using an OS that can use that much. Not all do.)

  2. At the time the MB was built, none of the then available memory boards worked in configurations over 256Mb. Newer type memory boards might. (Number of chips issues, etc.)

The latter is highly unlikely if you have a recent PIII MB. Go to the manufacturers web site for updated info. Perhaps a BIOS update can take care of it.

FtG

3

Oh you look at your computer manual & it says how much you can put on. Plus, the operating system must also recognize it. I forgot what limits there are for that but you didn’t say which OS so…

4

Yes, the manual specs specifically say 256 max. My question is what will happen if I put more in? I run Win2K. Thanks.

5

Win 98 will only use 256 (I think it might use more but not efficently), 2k can use more. Most likely your board will not reconize more then 256. I don’t see how it could dammage the board though.

6

go to http://www.crucial.com if you bought it factory made then they can probably help you find out(you don’t have to buy it from them just use their online ram compatability thing)
if you didn’t buy it factory made and it was custom built
then you can search via mother board instead.

, Win98SE 512mb, winME can use up to 768mb i think you need win2k to use anymore , i talk to gamers alot and they have

7

I BIOS flash may buy you more ram, beyond that if the MBD says the max is 256, then your stuck at 256

8

You can put more ram in & see what happens. From my experience, it just doesn’t see the extra ram.

9

The documentation that came with your computer may be out of date. You may want to try this to verify the max RAM your computer can handle. Download this free utility and install on your computer. Then execute the “Mainboard Information” module. Scroll down to the “Memory Controller” section and note the “Maximum Installable Memory” and “Maximum Module Size”. That will give you your answer.

This is an excellent utility that gives a lot of useful information.