installed 4x2G rams, but windows only shows 4G in total??

I just installed 4x 2G rams. The BIOS does show 8.1..G, but my Windows XP Pro only shows 3.25G. What should I do?

 

If you are not running a 64 bit version of XP Pro, windows will not recognize over 4 GB. The reason you only see 3.25 is the operating system reserves some of the memory for it's own use.

 

I see. How can I find out weather my XP pro is 32bit or 64bits? Well, then most likely mine should be 32 bit.
Thanks Lenny !!

 

If you don't know it's probabaly 32 bit. To run a 64 bit version, the hardware has to be compatable, and any other programs you are running would have to either be compatable (usualy) or set to run in compatability mode to work. And, I am pretty sure the 64 bit version is more expensive. If it is home, media center, or regular XP Pro it is 32 bit version.

 

On the original disk, only printed " Windows Xp Professional OEM Software, including SP3 - version 2002" I believe it's 32 bit then. In this case I will remove the 4G ram and install them to the other computer with Windows 7.
Thanks so much Lenny. Have a wonderful week.

 

Then most likely it's 32bit- 64 would specify on the packaging. To know for sure, you should be able to right-click on My Computer and select properties and it should tell you if its 64bit and which Service Pack it's running.

 

Look here:http://support.microsoft.com/kb/827218
Cheers Neil.

 

No.. it doesn't mention it's 64 bit. It must be a 32 bit. Thanks Berretta to confirm it for me.

 

wow.. now it's crystal clear for me which version of xp professional I have. Thnaks, Neil.