Question : Problem: Why will one stick of RAM work, but two of same sticks cause no boot/video?

I bought 2 new sticks of RAM: Kingston value PC-3200 @ 512 MB each.
2.6 V; 3-3-3. The MOBO is MSI 848P Neo.
I found that the above RAM is compatible with this MOBO.
The BIOS has not been updated, but I don't think that is the issue.

I installed a new  500 W P/S.
I inserted one stick at a time & exchanged/swapped them in the 2 slots.
Each stick works in one slot, but not both at once.

In the BIOS, I did choose SPD & the correct voltage @ 2.6V.

Why are both sticks not recognized?
Thanks,
Jim

Answer : Problem: Why will one stick of RAM work, but two of same sticks cause no boot/video?

hmmm... You are pretty much on top of it. Either see if he wants to try a single 1GB stick, or can live with 512MB.
You are probably correct about the mobo also. It sounds like the memory controller is buggered.
So mention to him that he to start thinking about doing something about it, before it decides to completely tank on him.  ; )