Dimension 4600 - using 4GB maximum - how

[gak1952]

I'm about to install 4GB into a Dell Dimension 4600 running a Northwood 3.4GHZ CPU.

The memory consists of two Dell 1GB PC3200U-30330 DDR 400MHZ CL3 Non-EEC memory chips and two Micron 1GB PC3200U-30330 DDR 400MHZ CL3 Non-EEC 64x8.memory chips

My understanding is old machines like the Dimension 4600 will not necessarily recognize all 4GB unless I install the right operating system. I believe it's something to do with 32-bit and 64-bit systems which I'm completely unfamiliar with.

Can anyone tell me what operating system I need to install/what I need to do to have the machine use and recognize all 4GB.

I have copies of Windows XP Home, Windows XP Professional and Windows 7 Ultimate that I can install on the 4600.

I thank you all for your help in advance.

I very much appreciate anything you can tell me.

 

[Pyree]

Northwood don't have x86-64 so won't run 64bit window, so you cannot get all 4GB usable.

 

[gak1952]

Do you know what the maximum amount is that the Northwood 3.4CHZ CPU will recognize in the Dimension 4600 and how I can maximize this amount?

 

[Pyree]

I got exact dell as HTPC but with 2GB RAM. I am not getting it more RAM because I know it won't run 64 bit window. If you want me to guess how much RAM is used, I will say about 3GB.

 

[gak1952]

Thanks for your help. I very much appreciate it. I decided just to install XP Professional and accept I'll just be using 3GB of memory.

Thanks again for taking the time to respond. I very much appreciate your help.

 

[gak1952]

Best answer selected by gak1952.