[willardpigeon]

I plugged an additional 256 Meg SODIMM RAM card into the available slot in my notebook, hoping to speed up this 3 year old clunker. But my system info utility says I've still got only the 256 M I had before, not 512. I ordered according to the specs provided on the website where I bought the memory upgrade for my PC. Do I need to somehow declare the additional memory or do something else?
Thanks,
Exasperated Willard

 

[Alex Ethridge]

That was necessary on some systems from days of yore; but, I haven't seen that on anything recent (3 years being recent).

First, check that the memory is properly seated in its slot. If so, I would remove and gently clean the slot and memory contacts with a pencil eraser and then wipe with denatured alcohol. (The pencil eraser leaves its own residue.) Next, I would see if there was any information about it on the manufacturer's web site. If not, send them an e-mail.

It might help if we knew the brand and model of your computer.

 

[willardpigeon]

Thanks. I'll give this a try - It's a Compaq EVO N1015V -

 

[Scorpion]

Another test is ti remove the memory you KNOW is working (the original), and then replace it with the purchased one. See if the machine boots. If so, then the new memory is working. If not, it's failed. If it does boot ok, then shut down and insert the 'original' memory into the second slot...see what happens. If it does not show up, either the slot is bad, or the BIOS need changing to make it usable.

I'll check the specs on the computer if I can.

Scorp.

 

[Scorpion]

Hmmmmm......if you go to THIS page (click on the 'memory' link), it seems you CANNOT use 2 x 256 modules to make 512.....which seems really dumb, but not surprising.

So, do the testes I outlined above, then at least you will know if the memory works. Either way, you may want to return it to vendor and purchase a 512 module and install it. That wold then give you 768....according to the specs, that will work.

I'll see if I can dig up some more on it.

Scorp.

 

[Alex Ethridge]

really dumb, but not surprising

For a "feature" like that, there should be a yellow sticker on the memory door. What a load of crap!

 

[willardpigeon]

Well, I'm afraid that didn't make any difference. I've sent off an email to Ultra Products, the mfgr, so now I guess I've just got to sit and wait for a response ....
Thanks

 

[Rich-M]

I only trust Kingston, Corsair and crucial configurators for compatibility.

 

[willardpigeon]

First, the new stick worked fine in the old slot. Then, by inserting the old stick in the second slot, abracadabra - 512 M of physical memory! My machine feels like it's got a turbo charger. And I feel as if Santa is playing weird tricks with me. But all's well that ends well -- many thanks!
Befuddled Will

 

[Rich-M]

Good for you, then I have to believe the stick wasn't perfectly installed the first time, but who cares as long as it works.