System Memory Under Reported?

dudleydocker

Golden Member
Jul 5, 2000
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I just installed 2 - 512 MB sticks of PC2100 Registered ECC memory in my Dell 600SC. The BIOS reports 1024 MB, then flashes a message that "the amount of system memory has changed", and then a message that "only 256 MB is supported". Finally, Windows (2k Server) only reports 256 MB.

Is this a hardware or OS issue?

Unfortunately I do not have another machine to check the RAM.

Replacing the original 128 MB stick, everything returns to normal.
 

timswim78

Diamond Member
Jan 1, 2003
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I had the exact problem with an old dell Optiplex. I guess that the Dell Motherboard does not like the brand of RAM that we bought . . . .?
 

Nothinman

Elite Member
Sep 14, 2001
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If the BIOS says only 256M is support, it probably only lets you use that much. We had some Compaqs that did that until we applied a firmware update which upped the max supported memory.
 

Nothinman

Elite Member
Sep 14, 2001
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I didn't look to see what a "600SC" was, I assumed a workstation or laptop. Since it's a server I would suspect it's being picky, have you contacted Dell?
 

dudleydocker

Golden Member
Jul 5, 2000
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Haven't called Dell yet. Funny, this is the first "manufactured" PC I've ever bought, at least one that comes with "support". I've already replaced the IDE drive with a 39160 and two 73 GB drives. I should be able to fix this myself right?
rolleye.gif
 

Nothinman

Elite Member
Sep 14, 2001
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If it's a firmware issue all you can do is look for updates or talk to support. If the docs don't say what type of memory it supports there's no much anyone else can tell you.