Why did installing a dual-core proc cause my effective RAM to drop with a 32 bit OS?

[nedfunnell]

Hello all,
I just upgraded from an MK-36 2.0GHz Turion 64 (single core) to a TL-56 1.8GHz Turion 64 (dual core). I have 4GB of RAM installed, but because I'm running under Windows XP Pro SP3 32bit, I know I won't be able to see all of it. Before I upgraded my CPU, Windows reported something like 3.25GB of RAM. Now it reports 2.25GB. I knew going in that I'd lose one increment of RAM clock speed, but I didn't think it'd affect the memory capacity. Can anyone offer insight? Thanks!

 

[VirtualLarry]

That's not normal. It sounds like all of the RAM isn't accessable anymore. Those chips have an IMC, perhaps it's damaged or not making connection properly.

 

[Hyperlite]

Yeah certainly not normal. Are you running 4x1Gb or 2x2GB?

edit: i assume 2x2. Pull one stick at a time and see what your addressed memory is. If one stick reads 1Gb or something, you know where your problem lies.

 

[Spikesoldier]

be sure that your mainboard is compatible.

i would see if there are any BIOS updates available.

 

[NickelPlate]

Hello all,
I just upgraded from an MK-36 2.0GHz Turion 64 (single core) to a TL-56 1.8GHz Turion 64 (dual core). I have 4GB of RAM installed, but because I'm running under Windows XP Pro SP3 32bit, I know I won't be able to see all of it. Before I upgraded my CPU, Windows reported something like 3.25GB of RAM. Now it reports 2.25GB. I knew going in that I'd lose one increment of RAM clock speed, but I didn't think it'd affect the memory capacity. Can anyone offer insight? Thanks!

I don't know, but it's funny that you mention that. The converse happened to me. When I upgraded from a dual to a quad with the below setup, my effective memory *increased* from 2GB to 3.25GB.