RAM memory is one of the most important, let’s say, functional parts on our computer... The speed of our computer depends on the amount of memory used, and this is a determinant of the convenience of spending time at the computer (and not only for those who use the computer as a gaming machine)).
In the article we will look at the nuances for solving the problem when Windows does not see RAM - what to do about it, how to solve the issue of increasing RAM for free, or at low financial cost.
The simplest solution is to install an additional (or new) RAM card on the computer’s motherboard... however, you should not rush - perhaps the problem is in the computer settings.
But let's take a step-by-step look at when Windows 7 or Windows 8 does not see the entire amount of RAM.
Text by points:
part for: 32 bit versions of Windows 7 or Windows 8
First of all, it should be said that such problems, when the computer does not see RAM memory, are usually caused by either hardware (mechanical) or software errors (settings).
The article discusses the question of how to clean the RAM memory of a computer or laptop...
So: 32-bit versions of Windows use only 4 GB of RAM to operate: therefore, if you have a large enough amount of RAM (more than 4 GB /see documentation/), to increase the speed of the computer - and this means increasing the amount of RAM memory, with in which the system will work, you need to install the 64-bit version.
You can find out the version of Windows that is installed on your computer like this: go to the “System” section in the control panel, or click “My Computer” and then right-click on “Properties”.
The picture highlights data on the “Bit capacity” and the amount of RAM.
The picture shows that the RAM (ram) memory of the system is 6 GB. and the 64-bit version is installed.
That is, you understand, in this case the system will use memory at full capacity! And if there was a 32-bit version, only 4GB would be used.
See how simple it is!? If you have a 32-bit version installed and more than 4 RAM, then in order to increase the memory used for system work, you just need to change the bit depth of Windows.
Screenshot for Windows 7: “System Properties”
In this case, with the seven (as in the screenshot above), as you remember, it is better to use the 64-bit version of Windows!
However, remember that it is not only the bit depth that determines and influences the used (visible) volume of the frame memory system.
if Windows has maximum memory limits
As mentioned above, study the documentation of your system, namely what edition of Windows is installed on your computer.
For example: we are using Windows 7 Starter. Its maximum amount of RAM available for work is 2GB, but not 4GB.
If “Windows 7 Home Basic” 8 GB of RAM memory will be used.
Windows 8, in one of the latest versions, also has its limitations.
Windows 8 - maximum amount of available RAM memory frames
Windows 7 - maximum amount of available RAM memory frames
It should be noted: RAM memory is allocated for the most optimal operation of the computer. For example, video cards.
Let's consider the case when:
computer motherboard has limitations
If, for example, as mentioned above, we bought an additional RAM card, inserted it into the corresponding slot of the motherboard, but the visible memory remains at the same values, then this means that there are some restrictions in the motherboard settings.
To find out the issue of restrictions on the system's memory use, you will need to open the BIOS.
how to open system bios
Let’s use the “restart computer” button... click... as soon as the system closes and starts a new boot (usually a black screen), at this moment - just before the system starts booting - you need to press the F2 or Delete button - this is the classic option for most to enter the BIOS. If something doesn't work, study the documents of your PC.
...as soon as you enter the BIOS, the parameters will be displayed on the screen, including data on the amount of memory used. Amazing!
Now you should write down (or remember the data) the BIOS and compare it with those visible in the “System” data.
If these data differ, then we will begin to look for restrictions in the Windows system itself, or consider the possibility of mechanical malfunctions.
It may be that the BIOS does not show a correspondence between the memory data: then, as trivial as it may seem, study in more detail the system data of the motherboard installed on the computer.
Memory board installed incorrectly
As an option:
If I am sure that the motherboard supports the entire amount of installed memory, but the data in the BIOS is significantly lower, then perhaps I installed the memory board incorrectly!
Simply turn off the computer and reinstall the memory board.
1 - to make the reinstallation neat, you can clean the contacts of the memory board... although, if you just purchased the board (it’s new), then the contacts in the motherboard slot may have oxidized (try using another slot, if one exists) if there is no additional slot - Clean the contacts of the existing slot using a hard eraser.
2 - make sure that the board fits into the slots accurately and correctly!!
And I repeat again: study the documentation for your motherboard in more detail - it is possible that to add an additional memory card you need to use a specific slot!
Once you have checked the mechanical part of your hardware, we will again compare the BIOS and System data.
To test RAM, you can use the memory diagnostic utility built into Windows, or a third-party program like memtest86.
If anything is not clear and you still have questions, share them in the comments...
Some users continue to ask why they have, for example, 8 GB of RAM, but the system sees only 4 GB, or maybe even less. The answer to the question is very simple - this only happens with 32-bit systems. Whether you have Windows XP, Windows 7 or the current “ten”, but with a 32-bit architecture, it will not see more than 4 GB.
When viewing system properties, you can see even less available RAM, why is this happening? The answer is simple, part of the so-called address space goes to servicing connected peripheral devices. The video card turned out to be the most useful. Although some devices do not even use RAM. The amount of address space depends on the chipset and other parameters, for example, BIOS, computer configuration.
The system does not see part of the RAM
The only way to get rid of this problem is to reinstall the OS to a 64-bit version. Then you will have more than 4 GB available.
There is also one trick to the system. Press Win+R and enter the command msconfig. Next, the “System Configuration” window opens. Go to the “Download” tab and click on the “Advanced options” button there.
Uncheck the box "Maximum Memory".
Solution option number 2
It happens that devices for the computer configuration take up some of the memory, but not very much. Therefore, there is no need to worry about this.
Another option is to make sure which one is supported by the motherboard. But this applies more to old technologies.
You also need to enable the function in the BIOS Memory Remap Feature(also has names: Memory Hole Remapping, H/W Mem Remap And H/W memory hole Remapping). After that we install a 64-bit system. Sometimes these options are already enabled automatically on modern boards, so you can just make sure.
If you actually have less than 4 GB of RAM on a 64-bit system, then the Memory Remap Feature parameter should be disabled in any case. Not only will the available capacity become even smaller due to this, but some devices will also freeze, which especially affects simulation and gameplay.
It happens that the BIOS does not see the required amount of RAM, then it is worth updating it. This is a risky business and should be approached carefully and cautiously. Instructions for updating can always be found on the official website of the motherboard.
More materials:
If the installed modules are detected in the BIOS, but not in Windows, then you should check the manual for the motherboard. It usually says about connecting specific RAM modules, for example, which mode is better - single-channel or dual-channel. On the official website you can find out about the models that may suit you and the connection option.
If the system does not see the RAM, this may be due to an incorrectly set power supply value, as well as due to faulty modules. Moreover, if one of the strips fails, then the system may not start at all, then you need to get rid of it.
Let's sum it up
So, we figured out why the computer does not see RAM, as well as a certain amount of it. I’ll describe point by point what needs to be done if this happens:
- Reinstall the OS to the 64-bit version;
- In System Configuration, uncheck the “Maximum memory” item;
- Check the maximum amount of RAM on the motherboard;
- Check the serviceability of the RAM modules;
- Rearrange the RAM strips;
- — instructions on the official websites of motherboards;
You can also clean your computer from dust and dirt. Wipe the contacts on the RAM modules and clean the slots. I hope this article helps you!
RAM is the most important component of a desktop computer, and it is also the fastest and easiest to upgrade. The operation of modern memory modules is very simple, so the process of installing them often goes smoothly, but any troubles are still extremely annoying. If you purchased several new memory modules, but your computer or operating system does not recognize them, you must take the following steps to determine the cause of the problem.
First Step: Checking the Socket
Installing memory into a computer is not difficult: you just need to bend back both clips on the memory slot, and then push the memory card straight down with force. Insertion pressure will cause the clips to click into place, but they often need to be pushed back onto the DIMM. If the memory board is not strictly perpendicular to the connector and the motherboard, or if the clamps cannot be secured evenly, then this means that it is not inserted tightly. You should remove the memory and try to insert it again.
The design of the laptop is clearly more complicated. If it provides access to the memory slot (many new compact models do not), then the memory module is inserted at an angle, and then pushed down towards the laptop body until it snaps into place. Even a correctly inserted memory card may not be fully seated; Sufficient pressure must be applied to the board, but in such a way as to avoid the risk of damage to its electrical circuits.
Second step: Check motherboard compatibility
Standard RAM modules for both desktop PCs and laptops are inserted in only one direction. Desktop and laptop memory cards are not interchangeable, and different generations of memory cannot be inserted into the wrong socket (in principle, it is impossible to insert DDR3 into a motherboard that supports DDR4).
Occasionally, even memory of the appropriate type turns out to be incompatible with a specific motherboard. Despite this, faster memory (with higher frequencies and lower timings) may work well on a motherboard that only supports lower frequencies. The memory will simply work slower than it could.
The motherboard has a limit on the amount of memory it can support, covering all the memory slots on the board taken together. Their number varies from two to eight, but most full-size motherboards are equipped with four. This means that a motherboard with a maximum amount of RAM of 16GB and four memory slots can “take on board” no more than 4GB in each slot. When you insert an 8GB DIMM into the socket, the module will not be detected.
You should check the manual for the motherboard to find out the optimal type and amount of RAM from its technical characteristics.
Third step: Diagnostics using Memtest86
If, after performing the above steps, the reason for the memory not being detected is still unclear, then the explanation may lie in a malfunction in the RAM stick itself. Windows has a built-in Memtest86 utility, which can be launched by holding F8 when starting the computer.
If memory testing returns detected errors, then the memory module is probably faulty, that is, you will have to replace it by returning it to the store or to the manufacturer (if the warranty period has not expired).
Fourth Step: Cleaning Contacts
If the memory shows errors or is not detected, then it is worth checking whether dirt has accumulated on the contacts or whether they are damaged. It is recommended to clean the contacts with a piece of cotton cloth soaked in isopropyl alcohol. Do not use conventional cleaning products as the chemical compounds they contain may cause corrosion.
It will be necessary to wait for the final evaporation of the alcohol, and then re-inspect the contacts for the presence of dust and cotton fibers on them. If you have a can of compressed air on hand, you should briefly blow it on both sides of the bar, then reinsert it into the system board and try to boot.
Fifth step: Testing on other systems
Even if memory diagnostics show no results, the problem may be more serious. The motherboard may be faulty, the replacement of which will be much more expensive. The following actions cannot be taken without additional equipment. In this case, you will have to turn to friends or colleagues for help.
Try to get a working computer with the same memory requirements as yours (same DDR version and sockets that accept the same amount of RAM). Next, move the potentially faulty memory to a second computer and see if the same symptoms of the problem appear. If during the boot process the computer detects new memory, this means that the root of the problem lies in another part of the system, and not in the memory.
Now do the testing in reverse. Install another memory DIMM into your computer in the same slot, making sure it is compatible with your motherboard. If the computer finds memory when booting, it means that your old memory module is broken - it will have to be replaced.
It often happens that the computer does not see the RAM. Read the article to solve the problem.
One of the popular ways to upgrade a PC or laptop is to increase the amount of RAM. But it often happens that new memory sticks are installed, and the OS shows that there is not enough memory or it is unavailable. In this article we will look at why this happens and what needs to be done to fix the problem.
What to do if a computer or laptop does not see RAM?
If you open the properties of your computer and instead of the installed, for example, 8 GB, the system sees only 4 GB, then it’s worth understanding in detail what the problem is. So, what to do if your computer or laptop does not see RAM? Reasons and tips:
Check the OS bit depth:
- Open the system properties and look at its capacity.
- A 32-bit system has a 4GB limit, and even if you install 8GB or 16GB, the PC still won't see them.
- Nowadays, IT specialists can work around this problem, but it is difficult and does not always work.
- As a result, you will have to come to terms with what is available or reinstall the OS to 64-bit.
RAM limit indicators for your Windows:
- All versions of Windows OS have their own maximum permissible RAM limit, with which the system can function normally.
- If you install more RAM, the system will not see it and may even become glitchy.
Motherboard limitations:
- Any motherboard can only accept a certain number of gigabytes of RAM.
- Equipment that was released 5 years ago or earlier is considered outdated models and can only see 4 GB of memory. Newer models are 16 GB, and now cutting-edge models are being produced that can easily operate with 32 GB or more.
- You can view the capabilities of your PC on the manufacturer’s official website.
- Pay attention to the frequency that the motherboard unit supports.
Check for restrictions when loading the OS:
- Such restrictions can exist in any operating system, and they are installed on its boot. Because of this, part of the OS may be inaccessible.
- To check these restrictions, simultaneously press "Win" + "R". In the line that appears, type "msconfig". And "Extra options".
- In the new window, uncheck the box "Maximum Memory".
- Then click "OK" and restart your PC.
Check the functionality of the RAM:
- If the RAM has lost its normal functionality, then the computer does not see the available amount of RAM.
- First, turn off the equipment from the network. Take out the slats.
- They can be checked one by one, for example, on another device - a laptop or computer, or on the same PC on which they were installed. Insert each RAM block one by one into the same port and check whether the PC sees it or not.
Rearrange the RAM blocks:
- If your PC has a dual-channel operating mode of RAM blocks, then you need to use RAM of the same brand, the same size and model.
- It's also acceptable to use different brands, but you should change the connectors by experimenting with them: connect the blocks and look at the sequence in which your PC sees the RAM.
Update BIOS:
- In most cases, a newly installed BIOS version helps solve all problems.
- Therefore, pay attention to which BIOS version is used on your PC.
- This can be done when you turn on the computer. But the data appears literally in a couple of seconds. Therefore, when you turn on the PC, press the key "Pause/Break", and study the information in detail.
Reset BIOS settings:
- When the computer does not see the required amount of memory, reset the BIOS settings to the original ones.
- Click tab "Exit" in BIOS. A window will appear in which click on.
- You can remove the battery from the motherboard for a couple of seconds, and then put it back in place. This will also solve the problem.
Clean the RAM sticks and ports from dust:
- First, disconnect your computer from the network.
- Pull the processor out of its socket and remove any dust or dirt.
- Also check if all the legs are in place and if they are bent. This could also be the cause of the problem.
If you can’t solve the problem yourself, then contact the service center or IT specialists.
Video: Computer does not see all RAM? It's decided.
The idea behind installing RAM is to insert the memory cards into the appropriate slots on the computer's motherboard and turn it on. In fact, various problems often occur in which Windows does not see the RAM. These problems can be caused by both hardware and software problems. In this article, we will look at the most common reasons that cause a situation where Windows 7 or Windows 8 does not see the entire amount of RAM.
You are using a 32 bit version of Windows 7 or Windows 8
The maximum amount of RAM that 32-bit versions of Windows can “see” is 4 GB. Therefore, if you have more RAM, you should install the 64-bit version to take advantage of that memory. To find out what version of Windows is installed on your computer, open the “System” item in the Control Panel (or right-click on “My Computer” and select “Properties”).
In the “System type” item, information about the bitness of your version of Windows will be displayed. However, it is not only the system bit size that can affect the amount of available RAM in Windows.
Your version of Windows has a maximum memory limit
In addition to the bitness of the operating system, the amount of visible memory is also affected by which edition of Windows you are using. For example, if Windows 7 Starter is installed on your computer, then the maximum available amount of RAM is 2 GB, not 4. Windows 7 Home Basic users only have 8 GB of RAM available, even if they are using a 64-bit version of the OS . There are similar limits for the latest version - Windows 8.
| Version | X86 | X64 |
| Windows 8 Enterprise | 4 GB | 512 GB |
| Windows 8 Professional | 4 GB | 512 GB |
| Windows 8 | 4 GB | 128 GB |
Maximum amount of available RAM memory in Windows 8
| Version | X86 | X64 |
| Windows 7 Ultimate | 4 GB | 192 GB |
| Windows 7 Enterprise | 4 GB | 192 GB |
| Windows 7 Professional | 4 GB | 192 GB |
| Windows 7 Home Premium | 4 GB | 16 GB |
| Windows 7 Home Basic | 4 GB | 8 GB |
| Windows 7 Starter | 2 GB | Not available |
Memory is allocated for operation of the built-in video card or other equipment
Various computer hardware can use some of the system RAM to operate. The most common option is the use of RAM by integrated video controllers (integrated video card). But this is not the only option when hardware uses RAM.
You can see the amount of RAM used by the built-in video card and other computer equipment in the same “System” window. If memory is allocated to them, you will see two values - installed RAM and available for use, which will be displayed in parentheses. Accordingly, the difference between them is the size of RAM that the devices took for themselves.
The motherboard has a memory limit
Motherboards also have limits on the available RAM memory. Just because all the memory modules have successfully fit into the slots does not mean that the motherboard is capable of handling all that memory.
To find out if the motherboard sees memory, enter the computer's BIOS. To do this, immediately after turning on the PC and before starting to load the operating system, press the appropriate button for this; information about it is usually on the screen (As a rule, this is F2 or Delete). In most BIOS versions, you will see information about installed memory on the first screen.
If all the memory is visible in the BIOS, but not in Windows, then we are looking for a problem in Windows. If the memory is not displayed in the BIOS, then you should look for the problem at a lower level than the operating system. First, you should familiarize yourself with the specifications of the motherboard (for example, find it on the Internet).
Incorrectly installed memory
If you are sure that the motherboard supports the entire amount of installed memory, but it still does not appear in the BIOS, it makes sense to check whether you inserted it correctly.
Turn off the power to the computer, open it, it is better if it is grounded. Remove the memory sticks and carefully place them back in place, making sure that the memory is seated correctly. You can also clean the RAM contacts using a hard eraser.
In some cases, for proper operation of RAM you need to install it in specific slots - in this case, look for information in the instructions for the computer motherboard.
Another way to diagnose a problematic memory module is to remove them one at a time, then turn on the computer and look at the amount of available memory.
Problems with the RAM itself
If you are having any problems with your memory, it may be the cause. You can use a RAM testing utility such as memtest86 or use the built-in Windows memory diagnostic utility. You can also recommend testing the memory sticks one by one by installing them in the computer - this way you can more accurately determine the faulty module.
I hope this article about possible reasons why your computer does not see memory will help you solve the problem.