📎 AI Summary:
The thread discusses a user’s issue with only 8GB of usable RAM despite installing 16GB in their system. The main advice suggests checking hardware reservations, BIOS/UEFI updates, and ensuring memory is properly configured, including enabling XMP for optimal performance. The user resolved the problem by adjusting BIOS settings to overclock the RAM, and others recommend testing the memory with memtest to confirm stability.
JeronStevens

JeronStevens

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Thread Author #1
I installed a second stick of DDR3 1x8gb in my system. I opened up task manager and it detects 16gb of ram, but it only shows 8gb in use.
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Is this normal, or do I have to allow my computer to use all 16gb? Thank you
 

Solution
JeronStevens
I have 4 slots, both run duel memory, I currently have it in slot 2 and 4 running in duel channel. I tried to run it with and without duel memory.

I got it working now, I messed with BOIS settings, and clicked an option to overclock ram, and it worked after that. Its kinda weird since both ram sticks are identical.
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Neemobeer

Neemobeer

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#2
For whatever reason your system is hardware reserving 8GB that's why you only have 8ish usable.
 

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Neemobeer

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#3
Press windows key + r and type msconfig On the boot tab click 'Advanced Options' make sure 'Maximum Memory' has no checkmark. If it does clear it and apply the settings and reboot.
 

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Neemobeer

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#5
Check your computer manufacturer site for an update to the firmware (BIOS/UEFI)
 

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JeronStevens

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Thread Author #7
I have 4 slots, both run duel memory, I currently have it in slot 2 and 4 running in duel channel. I tried to run it with and without duel memory.

I got it working now, I messed with BOIS settings, and clicked an option to overclock ram, and it worked after that. Its kinda weird since both ram sticks are identical.
 

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Solution
nmsuk

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#8
So you've enabled XMP? If it's working I'd leave it at that. I'd probably do a full memtest though just to make sure.
 

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