Windows XP SP2 won't detect all 768MB of my RAM

Yesterday I managed to get a free 512MB stick from a friend. Before, I had a 256MB + 128MB. Now I have a 512MB + 256MB. I had 384MB before, and after precisely doubling my previous RAM, it only recognizes 640MB. Not positive but pretty sure they are compatible.

According to MSINFO: http://img146.imageshack.us/img146/2847/infosa9.png

But System Info clearly states: http://img166.imageshack.us/img166/9922/msinfoui7.png

Now, I'm not a total newbie at computing, but don't start speaking Techlish, ok?

Any help'd be appreciated.

 

Welcome to Windows BBS!
Firstly I would have said you have onboard graphics that is using 128MB RAM. But you would have had the same issue with the 384MB installed.

Are you sure (check again) that the combination is 512 + 256 and not 512 + 128?. Try each stick on its own to test if it's recognized and what the size the system recognizes. Try changing what slot the stick are in.

When the PC boots into BIOS what RAM is shown?

 

One thing I suggest can happen is that the 256MB module is dual-sided (chips on both sides), the 512MB is single sided. Only one side of the dual-sided module is being used.

Check what the BIOS sees. Go into the BIOS/configuration settings at startup, but I think it will be the same. If you have more than two RAM slots you can try different locations, but it may not help

Matt

 

I've tried mixing and matching, no good. BIOS boots up as 766 confused but it's still seeing the 640MB in System.

I'm positive that I have two 184-pin 512MB and 256MB sticks.

edit: Only have two RAM slots. Maximum RAM that can be used by my OS is 2048MB.

 

Just something I noticed when I looked at those screenshots. One says it is a Gateway system, the other is Emachines. If you have used an Emachines Windows CD on a Gateway computer, it probably doesn't have the correct drivers installed. I don't know either very well, but I don't expect it should have contradictory listings.

Matt

 

I'm not sure why it lists it as Gateway. My drivers are eMachines, my Monitor is eMachines and my computer case lists eMachines.

 

I may be way out in left field here (just ignore me if I am), but since you seem to be missing 128MB RAM could it be dedicated (shared) to your integrated video?

BTW: Gateway owns the Emachines brand I do believe.

Mitch

 

Possibly.

That's something I plan on working on.

If so, is there any way I can get a non-integrated motherboard/GFX card?