my simms don't work

[lib319]

I fitted 2*16mb 72 pin simms onto my motherboard hoping to increase memory from 32 to 64 mb. Both the simms are slotted in fine but I'm only getting 48 mb. As simms have to be fitted in pairs I was wondering if it's possible for the computer to boot up with a faulty simm installed, therefore explaining the undersized memory?

thanks for any advice

[Alejandro]

There are a number of things to consider. First of all, you should get a copy of your motherboard manual. Then you should check the memory part. I assume that since your motherboard accepts simms it's an older one. I have a pentium 200mmx installed in a VxPro m/b, which has two DIMM slots and 4 SIMM slots. However, you can't use simultaneously one of the DIMM slots and the two contiguous SIMM slots (according to the manual). Maybe you have a similar issue. Another thing is the distribution of the memory chip itself. If your motherboard does not accept that distribution, it only sees part of the chip, but it doesn't prevent the machine from booting.
I mean, some 32mb memory cards have 16 chips over it that are 2mb each, while some other have only 4 which are 8mb each (I'm talking about DIMM's, don't know if it's the same with SIMM's).
Hope that helps

[Whyzman]

lib319,

What you might need to do is enter the BIOS and then just SAVE and EXIT...usually F10. That will allow the BIOS to recognize the additional and get it "logged in."

Your current BIOS may have memory limitations. As mentioned, check your MB manual.

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Whyzman
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[Paleo Pete]

One other possibility is double sided memory. Some motherboards don't support double sided memory, so you only have use of half of the actul available memory on the chip. I have one of them.

That would be exactly the amount you currently show...half of 32 is 16, the existing 32+16=48. Sometimes it will be mentioned in the motherboard manual.

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[sea69]

hehe Pete!!!

good one!

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[lib319]

Thank you for all your helpful suggestions. I will be receiving a replacement for my double sided simms in a couple of days which I hope will cure the problem. Thank you all again.

Andrew