Memory problems

[crozon01]

I have a DELL Dimension with 512MB of memory in two of four slots 256x2. The type of memory installed are DDR PC2700. Recently I purchased new memory DDR PC3200 1X512MB and inserted it into the 3rd slot, I started the machine and comfirmed the new memory but my system would not boot up, the screen went blank and none of the preferials worked. I removed the memory and my computer began functioning again. What did I do wrong?, should I have purchased 2x256MB DR PC3200 or should I have purchased DDR PC2700 512MB or 2x 256MB? All assistance would be greatly appreciated.

[Bercon Forklifts]

Not enough information in your message, at least, we need to know which model Dell it is.

I do know (from painful experience) that some of the Dell motherboards won't work with memory above 256, and there can be issues when using different speed memory in the way you have. Equally, depending on where you got the memory, it might not be compatible with the Dell for other reasons. It's also possible that there may be differences other than just the speed between your existing memory and the new module.

One quick test that might be worth trying would be to remove the 2 original modules and only fit the new one, and see if it will then power up or not.

If it does, then there is a compatibility issue between the modules. If it won't boot, then there may be a problem with the module you have there, it's either faulty, or not compatible with the motherboard.

Hope that helps a bit.

Steve

[crozon01]

Thanks Steve,

I re-arranged the memory on the PC and you radvice has worked, I now have increased memory on my Dell Dimension 4600 PC and it is working fine.

Again Thanks,

Regards,