Windows using only half the physical RAM

[jkih0021]

Hi all,
I had a set of 2x2GB G.Skill F3-12800CL9-2GBNQ running fine for around a year on default XMP settings, and just installed a new pair of these alongside them.
The system is now
i5 760k (no OC)
2 sets of the above mentioned for a total of 8GB RAM in 4 sticks
GA-P55-USB3L with latest BIOS (version F8)

The system is fine, except it doesnt seem to use the 8GB.
The system panel (the one that I can get to by rightclicking my computer and clicking on properties) says I have 8GB physical memory and that Windows can use only 4GB of it.

So far I've tried disabling XMP and setting the memory setting manually to the product specs (9/9/9/24) on both channels and increased the DRAM voltage to 1.6V, but still no luck.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

 

[jaquith]

Since I cannot read those 'ideograms' if the Windows 7 Enterprise is a 32-bit version then 4GB is the max; you need a 64-bit OS to use >4GB - I see what appears to be '64'.

Never use XMP on more than (1) set.

Don't mix sets in DIMM slots; install as:
CPU: | Set 1 | Set 2 | Set 1 | Set 2 |

Clear CMOS use the Jumper method - http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=clear%20cmos&source=web&cd=5&ved=0CEgQtwIwBA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv%3DrdHH9KrceR0&ei=yIehTu-mHMK4tge2vZ2fBQ&usg=AFQjCNFVMa0n16wgzwDPqGKZxwcz0nzGcQ&sig2=HAHCZ6lq73XwbCCtvT1gXQ

To see if you have a 'bad' stick boot with (1) stick at a time, then test (1) Set at a time by itself.

---

If none of that helps then let me know. P55's are notorious for bent CPU pins and 'lost memory' is a typical issue. Also, if you have an aftermarket HSF then make sure there's no Metal -> MOBO contact.

 

[jkih0021]

Thanks for your post, jaquith
I've tried the one stick at a time approach, and kept getting rapid beeps, which the mobo manual said was bad RAM connection, and that I should try applying more force
I did exactly that, and the rig is working perfectly now
Apparently, the issue was that the new RAM was just not put in hard enough to begin with.

Thanks!

 

[jkih0021]

Best answer selected by jkih0021.

 

[jaquith]

Yep good seating always helps! Thankfully it was a simple fix!

Take Care!