16gb but only 2.92 usable

[gurmo]

Hello I have a Windows 10 with an Intel Core i5-2300 CPU @ 2.80 GHz
32-bit operating system, x64-based processor.

It is an older PC but I read that I could increase the RAM to 16.0 GB, so I did but it still states only 2.92 GB is usable.

I've gone to System Config and under Advance Options have checked the max memory and and tired to set it to 16384, but it keeps defaulting back to 0, even after hitting ok, apply, and rebooting.

Did I buy a bunch of useless RAM? Will I never get more than 2.92? What can I do to help make this old PC faster?

 

[kanewolf]

You state that you have a 32bit OS. That limits you to 4GB. So you have 3GB usable out of 4GB. If you are using the integrated graphics, that explains the missing 1GB.

 

[gurmo]

Ah so if I upgrade to a 64bit OS then it would hit more of my RAM?

 

[gurmo]

Or does my processor limit the OS as well?

 

[kanewolf]

There is no upgrade path from 32bit to 64bit. You have to install a new OS. So you have to backup and reinstall things also.

 

[nitinvaid20]

You should install the 64Bit OS Clean Install and then you can enjoy your Full 16GB of Ram and Only OS limits the RAM not CPU CPU only Limits the RAM Speed

 

[COLGeek]

MERGED QUESTION
Question from gurmo : "16gb but only 2.92 usable"

Hello I have a Windows 10 with an Intel Core i5-2300 CPU @ 2.80 GHz
32-bit operating system, x64-based processor.

It is an older PC but I read that I could increase the RAM to 16.0 GB, so I did but it still states only 2.92 GB is usable.

I've gone to System Config and under Advance Options have checked the max memory and and tired to set it to 16384, but it keeps defaulting back to 0, even after hitting ok, apply, and rebooting.

Did I buy a bunch of useless RAM? Will I never get more than 2.92? What can I do to help make this old PC faster?