6GB installed only 4GB show in BIOS and Windows 7

tallfern

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Sep 15, 2010
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Basically, I need to know how to test to see if I have a bad stick of RAM or a bad DIMM slot, because I've changed the voltages and it has not helped at all.
 
Post the following:
Verify these settings
Boot_OPT.gif

Resource Monitor
RM_7PRO6GB.gif
 
The (2) Values that say it all are Total & Installed, problems are when Hardware reserved {grey} are big numbers e.g. >1000 MB. Typically 32-bit causes H/W Reserve or "wasted" memory to be high. Causes: 32-bit, Memory Mapping in BIOS not set correctly, Maximum Memory in MSCONFIG, Hard drive Partitions, bad RAM stick(s), etc.

To capture a screen simply press the {PrtScn} for full screen capture, or {Alt + PrtScn} for a window; next open a free account {example http://photobucket.com/ } and in the "Add a reply" use the Add photo option or click in the IMG Code & Paste {IMG]URL[/IMG} - use [] brackets.
 

tallfern

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Sep 15, 2010
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weird, because i have windows 7 so that doesnt help, and I've booted it up and it's read 6GB in the Bios before, but it's not everytime, i wonder if theres a reason behind it.
 


That suggests: 1. Re-seat the DIMM(s) & clean-out both sockets & RAM connections {use a pencil eraser and wipe-off with Isopropyl or Rubbing alcohol & dry; use pressured air to blow-out DIMM socket}, 2. BAD Stick - determine which one works/fails & replace.

D/L and created a bootable CD/DVD with Memtest86 {ISO/zip}, run at least 2 passes ~ 2 hours - http://www.memtest.org/