128 mb reads differently

Hi,
I was working on a computer that is a Windows Xp (eMachine) and the memory chip installed is a 128 mb but the computer says it has 112 mb. I am at a lost for the cause of this. Mine is a Windows/Me and has 256 mb but shows 255 mb which I understand is not un-common but for a 128 to show as 112 is a big drop.

Other discovered problems for general info:
I also noticed that this computer modem is a 56K which I thought was not appropriate for Windows Xp. Plus the screen changes from regular desktop to a blank screen, back to a regular screen changing the Icons positions in the process and at some point back to the regular desktop with the Icons back in it's original positions.

I think this computer has the hee-bee jee-bee's but would still appreciate your assistance...Thank you

 

I'd guess this PC has an onboard video card (chip) that reserves 16MB or system RAM for the video. Strongly suggest it is upgraded to 256MB (or more) RAM. 112 is way too little for XP to run properly.

What's wrong with a 56K modem? I use it on my XP/W2K3 dual boot, another PC as well as a laptop! It's cheaper than ADSL where I live. Nowhere as fast, but I'll survive.

Desktop problems could be the result of many problems. I'd suggest upgrading the onboard video driver. Visit the manufacturers site for motherboard/ video drivers.

 

Hi,
Thanks for that info...Was not sure on what would eat up so much of the RAM but now I know. If there are any other causes, it will be good to know them as well. Nothing is wrong with a 56K modem but I think mine is a v90 and since Windows Xp is the top dog, thought it would atleast be a v90 too.

 

56K and v90 are one of the same. v90 or v92 is the protocol a 56K modem connects with. v92 is newer and supports some extra features over v90, but the speed will be the same. Some ISP's don't fully support all the features of a v92 modem. Like modem on hold, I think is one. But for the average dialup user they are identical.

Can't think of any other reason other than onboard reserved video RAM that would cause windows to report less than the full amount of system RAM installed. Other than as you first said, a MB or so difference.

 

Thanks for the info all is greatly appreciated and I guess I'm a little confused as well. If the 56K and v90 for example are as you explained, then I need a little clarity on when the Modem speed is increased what actual purpose that's is serving ?

 

What Is V.90 Technology

 

Thank you