More than 4 gb ram in windows xp 32 bit

[jester8562]

I know that windows xp 32 bit can only use 4 gb of ram (i think really like 4.3ish) What happens if i have 2 x 2gb sticks and 2x1 gb sticks for a total of 6 gb. Is there any downside to this, i.e. should i only use the 2 x 2gb sticks and leave out the 1 gb ones. I recently bought the 2 x 2gb sticks for testing and they were very cheap so I want to keep it. (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16820145184) $15 after rebate at frys. Just not sure what to do with the current ram in my system.
Since windows can only use 4.3 gb, what happens to the other unused portion of the ram.
When I just use the 2 x 2gb sticks, it shows up at 3.25 gb (i think, going from my memory)

[Alaron]

Windows 32bit can only recognize 4GB of RAM in total address space. The reason you see less, usually 3.25GB when 4GB are installed, is because Windows sets aside some of that address space for your devices and cards.

There would be no reason to add more RAM to your machine because Windows would not recognize/use anything more then the first 4GB. Pop for Vista 64bit (XP x64 was terribly supported) if you want to use lots of RAM. Or build a second computer.

[jester8562]

Thanks. I'll see if anyone wants to buy the old ram.