New installed RAM not being used. Very weird!

I'm using Vista 32-bit OS. I downloaded and installed CPU-Z. The memory checked out ok. It says i have 4096MB of DDR2800.




But Task Manager still stating 894mb total.

System properties says i have 4GB of RAM. Yes i know 32-bit vista supports a little under 4GB of RAM but that doesn't explain why my computer is only using 894mb.

Here is my screenshot uploaded to flickr.

Please specify your system specs - I see that it's an HP so it's a retail rig, but I'd like to know exactly what's installed in there... Have you explored all of the BIOS setting options? Maybe setting it back to optimal or default settings? Have you tried one ram stick at a time?

The system properties should only be showing around 35** mb of memory, not 4gb. One thing is for sure, the hardware is detected. Btw, you haven't listed your system specs yet.

Try to solve it in the software level first. Reinstall drivers, if not then try reinstallation of OS.

Here's a very late reply but hope it could help a few frustrated souls...

Situation: I upgraded my laptop from 1GB to 3GB (1GB + 2GB config), did so by inserting my new RAM into slot 2. BIOS and sys prop shows 3GB, but Task Manager only shows 894Mb (~1GB). Tried putting the 2GB RAM into slot 1 and the old RAM into slot 2 - no use.

Solution:
1. Power off computer.
2. Remove ALL RAMs from all slots.
3. Insert the 2GB RAM into slot 1.
4. Start computer and check memory in Task Manager (mine said about 2GB)
5. Power off computer.
6. Insert the 1GB RAM into slot 2.
7. Start computer and check Task Manager - hopefully it shows 2831MB.


Cheer up, you haven't wasted your newly bought RAM