Vista - Vista SP1 RAM problem !!

Hi guys I got Vista SP1 32bit and I have a strange problem..actually I have 4GB 1066 RAM...now my Vista doesnt wanna show 4GB it shows 3GB...I dont know where is the problem..I need to fix this so if you know please reply...thanks for any help.

Hi Nermin....... welcome to the vista forum

the problem you have is the 32bit OS, by default a 32bit OS has only 4gb available address space, this includes your VRAM (RAM attached to your GFX card) & other BIOS functions...

there is no way round this...... you will only EVER be able to utilize about 3-3.2gb, in order to utilize the full 4gb + you will need to migrate to a 64bit OS...



SK

I concur with skunksmash's assesment.

Even if you did have a full 4GB installed, depending on your motherboard, you will only be able to access between 3.0GB and 3.4GB. The "lost" memory is mapped to motherboard devices (either onboard or via expansion slots) during POST when you turn on your computer.

Because this all happens on the hardware level, even a 64-Bit OS will have this restriction. But then again, you shouldn't be running a 64-Bit OS on a motherboard that does not support memory remapping.!

Unless you motherboard supports memory-remapping, to allow that "lost" ram to be used by the system, the is nothing you can do about it.

Dude I know that but in the start it showed 4 GB Im bit worried because maybe my RAM is broken...I dont know..are u sure this is the main problem...motherboard is abit quadGT

Try running a memory test: Memory Diagnostics Tool

But in order to be sure, run the test continously for 24-48 hours. Sometimes problems only start showing after the 3rd or 4th scan...

if you type ''msinfo'' into the search bar, then select ''system information'' this should state the amount of physical memory installed & how much is ACTUALLY available for use...

if you had a dead RAM stick your rig would not post....



SK

I did that a few days ago and it didnt show any errors and in the start it was all ok but now its shows just 3 GB..rr im so mad..

Right. Boot into your system BIOS (usually by repeatedly pressing the <DEL> during initial power on).

What does the BIOS report as "Installed Memory" and "Usable Size". There is a distinction between the two.

If "usable" is less than "installed", then there are perhaps some settings in your BIOS that have changed from what they aught to be?

Ok bro hope this would work..I will restart now....God Im sick of this

hah I couldnt find any information about ram memory :S and I run memory diagnostic tool and there are no errors...i opened my computer case and all is ok but the problem is still here ...