Thanks to those who helped me on my last topic, advice on memory upgrading.
I'm using a Dell 4550 400 FSB with 2 256 sticks of RAM and confirmed with Crucial's Memory testing program that my system can take PC 2700 1 gig in each of 2 memory slots. I bought a 1 gig stick of PC2700 333 Samsung memory off ebay and removed one of the 256 sticks I had in. I made sure it was seated properly and tried to turn on the PC. The PC wouldn't turn on and the LED code on the back (per Dell's automated troubleshooter) notified me of "Memory Subsystem configuration activity or failure". I reseated it and got the same trouble. The automated troubleshooter suggests I "Clear NVRAM Using the Maintenance Mode Jumper on the Dell™ Desktop System" which I am nervous to do. I reinstalled the old RAM and the system booted fine.
Do I follow Dell's steps and likely screw something up? Should installing memory do this? Was I wrong and the momory is simply incompatible, or did I get a DOA stick?
Before I try to return it to the ebay seller (wish me luck) I'd appreciate any advice.
Thanks!
I'm using a Dell 4550 400 FSB with 2 256 sticks of RAM and confirmed with Crucial's Memory testing program that my system can take PC 2700 1 gig in each of 2 memory slots. I bought a 1 gig stick of PC2700 333 Samsung memory off ebay and removed one of the 256 sticks I had in. I made sure it was seated properly and tried to turn on the PC. The PC wouldn't turn on and the LED code on the back (per Dell's automated troubleshooter) notified me of "Memory Subsystem configuration activity or failure". I reseated it and got the same trouble. The automated troubleshooter suggests I "Clear NVRAM Using the Maintenance Mode Jumper on the Dell™ Desktop System" which I am nervous to do. I reinstalled the old RAM and the system booted fine.
Do I follow Dell's steps and likely screw something up? Should installing memory do this? Was I wrong and the momory is simply incompatible, or did I get a DOA stick?
Before I try to return it to the ebay seller (wish me luck) I'd appreciate any advice.
Thanks!