RAM Upgrade Problems

[Donzo_86]

Ok where to start...

Last month one of my 512mb RAM modules packed in.

I had 2 x 512mb in my 2 slots.

Since I had to buy new RAM I decided to upgrade while I was at it.

I used crucial.com and it told me I could use up to 2GB of RAM.
So I ordered 2 x 1GB Modules of compatible RAM.

When I replaced the RAM and started up my PC, Windows would not boot up. There was a quick 'Blue Screen' with white writing (too fast to read) and then it restarted my system.

I then tried to start up with 1 x 1GB and the Original 512mb module.

The PC started, windows started but it is only picking up 504mb of RAM.

I tried entering msconfig and changing the value of the maximum memory, but it won't go higher than 504mb.

Can anyone help?

 

[jaquith]

Welcome to Tom's Forum!

Assuming you selected the correct MOBO on Crucial and the correct RAM. Then 1 of two problems: 1. RAM is bad, at least 1 stick, 2. Try Clearing your CMOS.

In addition, try booting with (1) one stick then the next. Don't Mix-Match your RAM.

Q - What EXACT MOBO or PC Model?
Q - What EXACT Kit?
Q - What version of Windows?

 

[Donzo_86]

I just downloaded some system info software and I think I have the conclusion.

it reads the extra 1GB but as PC3200 (200mhz) and I ordered PC2700 (166mhz).

I assume I can't get this memory to work? and will have to get a refund. The memory has a sticker on it saying PC2700 so it is definitely their fault. Damn!

Not Sure if this is the right computer specifications...

Motherboard
Manufacturer: Life-On Computer Inc
Model: Spirit
Chipset: Intel i845G Rev. B1
Southbridge: Intel 82801DB (ICH4) Rev. 02
LPCIO: SMSC LPC47M192

BIOS
Brand: American Megatrends Inc.
Version: 1.01
Date: 07/02/2004

CPU
Name: Intel Pentium 4
Specification: Intel(R) Pentium(R) 4 CPU 2.80GHz

Memory
Slot 1: 512MB PC2700 (166MHz)
Slot 2: 1024MB PC3200 (200MHz)


I can copy in a full report if that would be better.

 

[Donzo_86]

Sorry, I'm running Windows XP Home Edition.

 

[jaquith]

This does not help "Motherboard / Manufacturer: Life-On Computer Inc / Model: Spirit" - I would guess it to be from some OEM --- why I asked or PC Model? BEST just provide a LINK to either your PC or MOBO.

Again, if you ONLY run the 1GB PC3200 does you PC boot?

Did you try Clear CMOS?? Here's a few different ways -> http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rdHH9KrceR0 to know it worked the Date and Time in the BIOS will be set to it's default date and time.

 

[Donzo_86]

If I run the 1GB PC3200 the PC starts but there is no visual sent to the monitor so I don't know what it is doing.

I have cleared the CMOS and the same thing happens.

Only way to boot up is to put the 512mb back in.

Is it possible for the PC3200 to work or do I need to buy PC2700?

My PC is a Fujitsu Siemens Scenic Edition. I don't know how to get motherboard info.


Chipset
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Northbridge Intel i845G rev. B1
Southbridge Intel 82801DB (ICH4) rev. 02
Memory Type DDR
Memory Size 1536 MBytes
Memory Frequency 133.3 MHz (3:4)
CAS# latency (CL) 2.5
RAS# to CAS# delay (tRCD) 3
RAS# Precharge (tRP) 3
Cycle Time (tRAS) 6
DRAM Idle Timer 16


Memory SPD
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
DIMM # 1
SMBus address 0x50
Memory type DDR
Manufacturer (ID) Samsung (CE00000000000000)
Size 512 MBytes
Max bandwidth PC2700 (166 MHz)
Part number M3 68L6523BTN-CB3
Serial number F103CEC2
Manufacturing date Week 38/Year 05
Number of banks 1
Data width 64 bits
Correction None
Registered no
Buffered no
Nominal Voltage 2.50 Volts
EPP no
XMP no
JEDEC timings table CL-tRCD-tRP-tRAS-tRC @ frequency
JEDEC #1 2.0-3-3-6-n.a. @ 133 MHz
JEDEC #2 2.5-3-3-7-n.a. @ 166 MHz

DIMM # 2
SMBus address 0x51
Memory type DDR
Manufacturer (ID) Kingston (7F98000000000000)
Size 1024 MBytes
Max bandwidth PC3200 (200 MHz)
Part number K
Serial number 683A5D07
Manufacturing date Week 09/Year 19
Number of banks 1
Data width 64 bits
Correction None
Registered no
Buffered no
Nominal Voltage 2.50 Volts
EPP no
XMP no
JEDEC timings table CL-tRCD-tRP-tRAS-tRC @ frequency
JEDEC #1 2.0-3-3-6-n.a. @ 133 MHz
JEDEC #2 2.5-3-3-7-n.a. @ 166 MHz
JEDEC #3 3.0-4-4-9-n.a. @ 200 MHz

 

[jaquith]

2.0-3-3-6-n.a. @ 133 MHz 2.50v; 512 MB
2.0-3-3-6-n.a. @ 133 MHz 2.50v; 1GB

In the BIOS:
DRAM/Memory Frequency -> 133 MHz PC1066
DRAM/Memory Timings/ set
3-3-3-6 (CAS-TRCD-TRP-TRAS)
<or>
2.5-3-3-6 (CAS-TRCD-TRP-TRAS)
DRAM/Memory Voltage -> 2.50v ; or leave as Auto

BTW - Set you Date & Time
Save & Exit = Yes

Then try the RAM 1GB + 1GB

 

[Donzo_86]

Thank you for all your help but I can't seem to get into the BIOS to change the settings.

F:10 takes me to the AMIBIOS New Setup Utility

But there is nowhere to change the RAM frequency.

There is a menu for Advanced CMOS Setup but it is password protected and there still doesn't appear to be anywhere to change the RAM settings even if it wasn't.

 

[jaquith]

If you have a password then I have my doubts the Clear CMOS worked -- it typically erases the password.

 

[Donzo_86]

Sorry. It is not password protected it just simply says "LOCKED" and there is nowhere to 'unlock' it.

When I enter the BIOS Setup Menu I have the following options:

System Information
Standard CMOS Setup
Advanced CMOS Setup
Power Management Setup
Peripheral Setup
Hardware Monitor Setup
Password Option (disabled)
Load Default Settings
Save Setting and Exit
Exit Without Saving

There is nowhere in here to change RAM settings.

From photos uploaded on the internet by others showing the "AMIBIOS New Setup Utility - Version 3.31a", they seem to have more options.

If I was to get actual 1GB PC2700 modules, will they work without a problem?

I'm reaching a stage where it would be easier to ship the RAM back off to China and buy from somewhere locally.

 

[jaquith]

Then replace the 1GB with 1GB PC1066 set because without control the BIOS is running at "Memory Frequency 133.3 MHz (3:4)."