Upgrading Ram

[t_mueller84]

I'm upgrading a computer's ram from 512mb to 4 gb. The current OS is Windows Xp Home and switching it to Windows 7. In order for the computer to see 4 gb of Ram would I have to use a 64 bit Windows 7 regardless of hardware?

Thanks..

 

[jonpaul37]

yes, you need a 64-bit operating system to fully utilize 4GB or RAM or more.

 

[aford10]

Yes. If you've got older hardware (I assume it's older since you're using 512mb RAM), make sure your system meets the minimum requirements for the 32 bit or 64 bit windows 7.
http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windows-7/get/system-requirements.aspx

 

[arges86]

also make sure that all your hardware has x64 drivers.
Nearly everything now-a-days does

 

[t_mueller84]

Best answer selected by t_mueller84.

 

[t_mueller84]

Yea I found that there system had components for only a 32 bit operating system, so I added an additional 2 gb of ram for a total of 2.50 gb of ram and a Nvidia GeForce 220 graphics card. It met the requirements for Windows 7 and my folks have a computer that decently works. I think of the fix like keeping a used car running thanks for all your help.

 

[aford10]

Good deal.

Thanks for the vote.