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    question on ram

    Discussion in 'Dell' started by HofDiz, Nov 20, 2007.

  1. HofDiz

    HofDiz Newbie

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    i just got my dell 1720. i ordered 4gb ram but when i go to my computer is says i only have 3.5 gb. can anyone with a 1720 with 4gb ram tell me if this is normal.
     
    HofDiz, Nov 20, 2007
    #1
  2. Kdawgca

    Kdawgca rotaredoM repudrepuS RBN

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    You have a 32-bit OS that can only see ~3GB(in your case 3.5GB). If you want to see all of the 4GB you need to install a 64-bit OS. Though most user wont notice the difference between 2GB/3GB and 4GB
     
    Kdawgca, Nov 20, 2007
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  3. John B

    John B Notebook Prophet

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    John B, Nov 20, 2007
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  4. HofDiz

    HofDiz Newbie

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    so the other .5 is useless in my case? or it just won't show up in my computer but is still being utilized?
     
    HofDiz, Nov 20, 2007
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  5. B2TheEYo

    B2TheEYo Notebook Deity

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    32bit OS only sees 3/3.5 - does it use the full 4GB? That I don't know.
     
    B2TheEYo, Nov 20, 2007
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  6. HofDiz

    HofDiz Newbie

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    anyone know the answer to this? oh and a side note...very impressive reponse time on this forum. thanks.
     
    HofDiz, Nov 20, 2007
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  7. sinstoic

    sinstoic Notebook Deity

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    Whatever doesn't show up in the OS doesn't get utilized!

    PS: If you got your memory from Dell, you have wasted a lot of money, especially when you can get 4GB for around $100.
     
    sinstoic, Nov 20, 2007
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  8. PhoenixAG

    PhoenixAG Notebook Consultant

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    Here's an article on how to utilise the full 4GB ram on a 32bit operating system.

    http://www.ocmodshop.com/ocmodshop.aspx?a=989

    Keep in mind that I am in no way related to the site, nor have I written the article. It's just something I found. I haven't even tried it as I only have 3GB of ram.
     
    PhoenixAG, Nov 20, 2007
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