Computer or RAM Module issue?

I recently installed Vista Ultimate on my Dell Precision M70 which already had 2GB of RAM installed.

I decided to give Vista a little headroom by installing an additional 1GB of RAM. I purchased a 2GB module and put it in slot "A" and a 1GB module of the same density and speed to put in slot "B". When I have the 3GB of RAM in the computer, the white progress bar in the POST screen goes across about one inch then stops. I don't even get to the point that I can press F2 to enter Setup or F12 for the boot sequence.

The computer works fine with just the 2GB module installed.

Does this mean that my Dell really only supports a maximum of 2GB of RAM or do both modules need to be the same size (2GB)?

 

AFAIK Dell wants 2 of the same in their slots whether you're having 2 or 4 slots.

Here's a link to Dell manuals. http://www.dell.com/support/my-support/us/en/19/product-support/product/precision-m70/manuals

Here's a link to Crucial for RAM Memory upgrades. Run the software. The software will tell you what ram you already have and the capacity of total RAM on your PC. You don't have to purchase from them. Just write down the specs you need if you decide to purchase another stick(s). http://www.crucial.com/

PS: On my previous Dell Dimension 4600 PC I also had to purchase in pairs (same size) when I added more memory.

 

Thanks oma,

I've already got the Service manual for my Dell. I've had to replace the system board, graphics card, inverter board and flex cable.

The spec sheet for it says 2GB max RAM but, I know for a fact it will support 4GB (even though I'll only "see" 3.5 GB). But the "matched pairs" I believe is the key information.

I had in mind to get a 4GB "kit" but because I'd lose the half GB, I didn't. rolleyes

 

Yes, they have to be in matched pairs.

Also, the Vostro I currently have came with 4 GB (4x1 GB sticks) which was enough but I wanted more (x64) so I called Dell (still under warranty) and arranged to send me 2x4 GB since they didn't have 2 GB sticks. The old 2x1 GB sticks were removed and 2 new 4 GB ones were installed in slot 1 and 3. (matching pairs) So slot 2 and 4 have 1 GB each and slot 1 and 3 have 4 GB each.

 

My Precision M70 only has two slots so I've got to get another 2GB module for slot "B". But' if it doesn't work, I'll just leave slot "B" open and keep the second module as backup.

 

Reminds me of RIMMs.

So this unit will only function in dual channel mode? Or, can you turn that off in the BIOS?

 

None of those fields can be changed in BIOS Setup. It just reports the amount of RAM installed.