Question : Problem: RAM: got 4 GB RAM, reads as 3.5 GB

Windows 2000 Web Server

I have 4 GB RAM installed in my system, but it only reads as 3.5 GB.

Is there a limitation? In BIOS it comes up as 3.5, the motherboard claims it takes 4 GB RAM (abit).

Does anyone know?

thanks!

BOBi

Answer : Problem: RAM: got 4 GB RAM, reads as 3.5 GB

Try these (one at a time):

(1)  Does your BIOS have a "32-bit OS" setting ??   If so, set it to NO and that may also remove this issue.

or

(2)  a.  Open your BOOT.INI file (on C: -- remove the R/O and Hidden attributes so you can edit it).

      b.  If the /3GB switch is in use, remove it.

      c.  Add the /PAE switch.

      d.  Reboot the computer.

This 2nd fix is for 2000 & XP, and you are apparently seeing it at the BIOS level, so I'm skeptical - but it won't hurt to try it.  You can always undo the edits (or simply save a copy of the BOOT.INI before doing the edits.

But the bottom line is that what you're seeing is common -- although one of the two items above may resolve it.