Thread: 4GB or 3GB physical memory for 32 bit wondows vista
View Single Post
  #8 (permalink)  
Old December 7th 07, 08:25 PM posted to microsoft.public.windows.vista.hardware_devices,microsoft.public.windows.vista.performance_maintenance,microsoft.public.windows.vista.general
Tim Slattery
external usenet poster
  
Posts: 505
Default 4GB or 3GB physical memory for 32 bit wondows vista
JC wrote:

I have 4GB of physical RAM, windows vista shows only 3326MB. Does it really
help with performance if I have 4GB or should I just install 3GB memory? I
just bought the additional 2GB memory (had 2GB before) and wondering if I
should exchange for a 1GB one. Thanks.

It's normal for 32-bit Vista (or any other 32-bit system) not to see
the entire 4GB. Some of the 4GB address space must be used to access
video memory, BIOS, etc. See http://members.cox.net/slatteryt/RAM.html

You computer is currently sees and is able to use 3326MB. If you have
only 3GB installed, it will be able to see and use only that much.
Whether you're actually using and benefiting from that extra 326MB is
another question. You probably won't notice the difference.

You should read your motherboard or system manual before making a move
here. As others have said, memory sticks often need to be installed in
balanced pairs.

--
Tim Slattery
MS MVP(Shell/User)

http://members.cox.net/slatteryt