I have a Pentium III 450mhz that initially came with 64 MB RAM. I decided to upgrade to 132 RAM by installing another 64 MB. Should be easy right? Just snap it right in and reboot the system? When I checked my system controls it still reads as having 64MB. How do I know if I have all 132 working and if so, how do I get it to show up correctly within my system?
Thanks...( At first I noticed increased speed, but now I don't notice it as much--maybe because I have just installed a CD-RW and scanner?)
Any hints on maybe cleaning up my system for smoother more efficient operation?

First, it should be 128, not 132.

Enter BIOS, save changes and exit, but make no changes. This lets BIOS see the new memory.

System Optimization (http://www.pcguide.com/opt/opt/index.htm)

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Of course it's 128 and not 132-- what could I have been thinking? Anyways, I went into the BIOS and saved but did not make any changes. Nothing has happened, as my system still does not recognize the additional RAM. Any other suggestions? Many thanks... (Ravens Fan)

Either it's the wrong type RAM, or static electricity fried it during or before installation.

Are you trying to use 72 pin SIMM and 168 pin DIMM or SDRAM together? That usually doesn't work, you have to use one or the other.

Static electricity is a big problem with a lot of home users who don't know what it can do or how to avoid it. It takes 2000 volts for you to feel it, like when you touch a door knob, and only 100 volts to damage computer components. You can create that much turning in your chair. You have to make sure you are grounded on the chassis before touching anything to avoid sending a charge into the machine.

If you can, try the new RAM in another computer to verify that it works, or take it to a computer shop and have them test it.

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You might want to re-try putting the Dimms in the slot making sure it is properly seated.....completely in and the lock/downs are . If not seated right the bios will NEVER see it!

Actually, I have also been experiencing the same problem - I have a new 64M PC133 stick to add to my existing two 32M Pc100 sticks. I have had no errors with three sticks in the computer, but it still runs just as fast as it did when I just had the 64M. The profile in windows even recognizes that there is 128M in the computer, its just not working. I'm running a 400 Celeron with an abit BH6 board. Can anyone please help?
Bill

If BIOS and Windows both recognize the new RAM, it's probably using it. You might need to defrag the hard drive, and possibly clear out some of the programs running in the background.

It might also be a good idea to check the BIOS settings, most make very little differencem but when added up you get a faster machine.

PC Guide Optimizations and Enhancements (http://www.pcguide.com/opt/opt/index.htm)

Definitive BIOS Optimization Guide (http://www.adriansrojakpot.com/Speed_Demonz/BIOS_Guide/BIOS_Guide_Index.htm)

BIOS Survival Guide (http://www.manawatu.gen.nz/pages/bios_survival/bios_sg.htm)

Make all changes to BIOS one at a time, and write it down so you know exactly what you changed. Test the machine before any more changes. Any problems can usually be traced back to the last change.

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Well what I think u are facing here is a Memory compatibility problem.
The old RAMs and the new ones are simply not compatible.
I advise u to try to install every 64 Mbs chip alone.
If both of'em work when placed alone then it's as i said compatibility problem, if 1 doesn't work then it's defective/not compatible with your board.
Mainly the bios memory test should give u a better idea of what's going on,enter ur bios with both 64 mbs chips installed together, disable quick power on self test (or whatever it's called in your bios which skips full memory test), when u save and restart a memory scan will occur if this scan stops somewhere around 64000 then it's only taking 1 Of the memory chips, if it's around 128 I guess the 128 are being used, and being misreported in Windows.

[This message has been edited by HeKmeH (edited 01-26-2001).]