Let’s see if I can be concise in my description of what’s happened.
Earlier today I upgraded the RAM in my computer to 512 MB, using a single memory chip in one slot.
When I check the System Information window by right-clicking on “My Computer”, it tells me that the computer is indeed running with 512 MB of RAM.
However, Norton’s Systemworks seems to be insisting that the amount of physical memory is no greater than 128 MB of RAM, which was the original amount. Checking the Resource Meter and System Monitor programs available from the System Tools menu indicates the same thing.
So, I’m getting two different descriptions here of the amount of RAM apparently available to me.
I’m using a Dell Dimension 4100, operating with Windows ME [sub](I know, I know[/sub]). I’ve searched Dell’s support website, with no luck. An e-mail to Dell resulted in an automated response that was staggeringly unhelpful.
The one quirk that may help explain this is that my computer manual (which I should have consulted before buying the RAM upgrade) says that each slot only has a capacity of 256 MB. But if that’s the case, why does the System Information window report that it’s running with 512 MB?
CnoteChris, I bought the computer in October 2000, which makes it slightly more than three years old. I realize that probably makes it middle-aged by computer standards.
Start up Windows Explorer (hold down windows key, press “E”). Select “Help”, then “About Windows”. What is the number beside “Physical Memory Available to Windows”?
Another thought - could it be that the low number you are seeing is memory currently available (i.e. not being used by the operating system or any other program)?
run it. right click on it and a agressive freeing of ram. then put your mouse over it and the amount free should pop up. with 512 around 400 megs should be free.
must be getting to late for the math part of my mind. 70% (how much agressive tries to free) would be around 350 not 400. anything over 128 megs will answer your question anyway though.
I am trying to figure out how you did your upgrade. You replaced an existing 128 chip with a 512? Or added a 512? Not sure how much this helps, but some computers require chips to match. I have an IBM Aptiva that shipped with 64M and I added a 128 chip but the computer only recognized 128M. Had I pulled the 64 and put in 2 chips, it would recognize 256. Still doesn’t explain the discrepancy, though.
FWIW, almost all computers nowadays run pc2100 ram chips, I think. I have a new Presario that shipped with 128. Like my last 3 computers, you have to use the same size ram if using more than one. I went with 2 256 for the 512.