RAM and ME problem

[negronm]

Just upgraded the RAM from 64MB to 512MB for a total of 576MB but the computer is only showing 192MB. How do I get the PC to recognize/use all of the avail. RAM?

I could not find anything in the BIOS that would show RAM configuration.

Compaq 7594
Celeron 566
Windows ME

[tireman]

Its very possible that the mobo in that system will only support a certain amount of ram.

tireman

[tireman]

According to the specs on compaq's site, that pc should support a TOTAL of 512mb of memory. Try using only the 512mb stick and see what happens.

Compaq 7594 Memory specs

tireman

[negronm]

I understand, but this is not that old of a system 2000 model.

[tireman]

The age really wont matter. The mobo can be brand new and still have memory limitations. The compaq's are extremely proprietary and only certain things can be upgraded. Like I said, look at the link in my post and you will see that the maximum amount of ram supported by that mobo is 512mb.

tireman

[tireman]

Well, my link seems to be unavailiable so use this one...

Crucial Memory

[negronm]

Well I pulled out the 64MB and now just have the 512MB one in, now it only reads 127MB... what next?

[tireman]

What type and brand of memory are you using?

[negronm]

PC133 Centon

[tireman]

Never used centon memory myself...I know that when it comes to upgrading compaq's that it can be a real headache. The mobo may not mesh well with that brand memory, or the stick may be bad. Maybe someone else may have some other ideas.

tireman

[GaryRouth]

If the Centon PC133 module is just one stick of 512mb = that's out-of-spec for that motherboard. The largest module it will accept is 256mb. It also might prefer CAS2 modules (many Compaqs do).

If you just bought the 512mb module, you might be able to exchange it for two 256mb modules (might have to pay a couple more dollars to make up any difference in price).

If you are getting the wrong amount of memory while using two modules, you'll probably need to find more compatible modules. Some Compaq models need single-sided modules = so if that Centon is double-sided, the correct amount might not be detected [and probably wouldn't function correctly either]. To get to the 512mb limit, I believe your model would need two sticks of single-sided CAS2 256mb PC133 (probably too pricey, if you buy retail - notice that because these are somewhat past their prime in terms of volume production, the price is sky-high: Crucial would ask $244 (USD) for that)

My suggestion would be to keep the 64mb module, and just add a 128mb single-sided module [these are still sometimes on sale for between $20 and $40 locally] for a total of 192 -- or go to two sticks of 128 for a total of 256mb = Win9x/Me doesn't really show much performance difference above 256mb.

Best of luck
. . . Gary

[glc]

Gotta use the right ram in a Compaq, you can't just stuff generic memory in.

[stylin19]

if it's not bad ram....another WAG .....go into msconfig..select advanced.
make sure "limit ram to" isin't checked.

[glc]

Its not bad ram, its WRONG ram. You are lucky that it even sees 128 megs of that 512 meg module.

[stylin19]

sorry...yes wrong ram....actually GaryRouth's got it right.
Maybe see if the 512 can be exhanged for 2 256's.

[GaryRouth]

negronm - if you follow the Crucial memory link that tireman posted for you, it will show you the compatible modules Crucial offers for your model. Crucial guarantees compatibility & carries a lifetime warranty. That is why their parts have a slight premium, but still are very competitive considering their quality. Nice thing about ordering from them: you don't have to figure out whether on not you need single sided or not - Crucial has already checked that out for you with the manufacturer (Compaq).

I really think you'll be fine with just adding one stick of 128mb PC133 from Crucial for a total of 192mb system memory. [assuming your 64mb stick is the original Compaq module, definitely keep it in]. It should yield a nice boost for the most reasonable cost. You might be able to return the other modules for full refund, or try an exchange.

Like glc mentions, Compaqs are particular about the memory they accept (notice that the Crucial modules are CAS2 [a little more expensive] - and I'd lay odds that they are single-sided). . . Sometimes, though, that pays off: they perform well. CAS2 memory is going to perform well for a long time, nice & stable.
. . . Gary

[negronm]

Replaced the 512MB with 128MB for a total of 192MB, and all is well. Thanks again..