Problem when adding more ram! Need some help

[Rick014]

I'm currently using 2 sticks of 512 MB PC3200 DDR400 and bought a 3rd stick to put in my system.
When I install the 3rd stick, part way through boot up, the system shuts off.
The ram is good, as I can use it by it's self or with one other stick and my system boots up fine.
It seems that I can use any 2 of the 3 sticks of ram in any of the 3 ram slots ant the system will work.
If I try to add the third stick of ram, the system shuts down.
The motherboard is an Epox 8rda+ which is suppose to support up to 3 gigs of ram.
Any ideas or advice on what to check for would be appreciated (as well as a bump)
Thanks

 

[ScrapSilicon]

you have tested all possibilities(slots) appears your board might not like all 3 dimm slots populated

 

[Rick014]

It might not like it, but it's supose to support it. The manual shows different configurations including all 3 slots populated.

 

[montag451]

Maybe it supports 3 sticks, but at very low ratings/high CAS

 

[Rick014]

I only have 2 options in my bios for the ram. Auto, and by SPD.
Neither option works with the 3 sticks of ram.

 

[FlyingPenguin]

Well first of all you DO NOT want 3 sticks in that mobo. The 8RDA+ supports dual channel memory mode. By adding a 3rd stick you're actually reducing your memory performance. You want to use two matched sticks of memory.

I had an 8RDA+ that I used as a server and didn't care about dual channel mode and I remember it was VERY fussy about memory.

Realistically, unless you're a Photoshop or CAD user, there's no reason to have more than 1Gb in your system. 1Gb is more than enough even for serious gaming.