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    6 GB RAM, but 2.66 GB usable!

    Discussion in 'Windows OS and Software' started by Mainul, Jul 13, 2018.

  1. Mainul

    Mainul Newbie

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    Hi all,

    I have a HP2000 series laptop. The OS is windows 8.1, 32 bit. I had 2 GB built-in RAM which I recently upgraded to 6GB by adding a 4GB RAM. The laptop recognized this as I can see 6 GB memory, but only 2.66 GB in use.

    Please let me know what should I do to increase memory use near to 6 GB. I tried with msconfig->advanced option->boot->uncheck memory option. but it did not work. I can still see memory 6GB, 2.66 GB in use.

    Seeking your advice.

    Thanks,

    Mainul
     
    Mainul, Jul 13, 2018
    #1
  2. toughasnails

    toughasnails Toughbook Moderator Moderator

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    RAM limits in Windows 8.1 Enterprise – 4GB on x86, 512GB on x64
    RAM limits in Windows 8.1 Professional – 4GB on x86, 512GB on x64
    RAM limits in Windows 8.1 – 4GB on x86, 128GB on x64

    So if your is windows 8.1 32 bit it will only under 4GB. Like windows 7 32 bit will only see about 3.3GB of 4GB . You will need to upgrade to the x64 Professional version to be able to use all 6GB
     
    Last edited: Jul 13, 2018
    toughasnails, Jul 13, 2018
    #2
    ALLurGroceries, Dannemand and Dennismungai like this.
  3. SL2

    SL2 Notebook Deity

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    You need the 64-bit version, and it won't cost you anything as your 32-bit license will work. It doesn't have to be the Pro version.
    I would advice you to perform a clean install, and also upgrade to an SSD before doing that if you haven't already. Well worth spent money as it will make your laptop much faster.

    Like you say in the first quote, non-Pro will work just fine. :)
     
    Last edited: Jul 14, 2018
    SL2, Jul 14, 2018
    #3
  4. Jdpurvis

    Jdpurvis Notebook Evangelist

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    For clarity - the 4GB imitation is for any 32 bit operating system, not just Win 32. The problem is that a 32 bit operating system is limited to seeing a total of 4 GB memory space - quite a bit of which will be taken up by the OS - hence the availability of less than half of your 6 GB. Upgrading to 64 bit OS would be simple - best method, as noted, would be clean install. I believe all of the 2000 series had 64 bit processors, but you should double check to be sure yours is not 32 bit, because if it is 32 bit, you would be stuck, and will not be able to install 64 bit Win.
    Good luck,

    Joe
     
    Jdpurvis, Jul 15, 2018
    #4
  5. KLF

    KLF NBR Super Modernator Super Moderator

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    What is the exact model of the laptop? Because there is just too many different "2000-series" HP laptops. Model number is in the bottom label.
     
    KLF, Jul 15, 2018
    #5