A guy is having a problem increasing RAM. Details. Dell Dimension DE051 with current RAM http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/836/ramdetails.jpg/ wants to upgrade to 2Gb tried, after a Crucial scan he bought this RAM from Ebuyer http://www.ebuyer.com/63128-extra-value-1gb-ddr-400mhz-memory-evr1024ddr400 unfortunately the PC refuses to boot unless the old RAM is reinstalled. Any suggestions on what next to try.
I had an old Dell's like that. With a big OEM like Dell you get into a situation where they continue to manufacturer systems well after enthusiasts would not be able to even buy the components used on the open market. With Dell and RAM I reckon this probably means the creaky motherboard is only rated to run PC2700 (is that 366Mhz?), Dell mitigate this as they move to their new systems buy buying in RAM that can run at both speeds, (faster for the new systems, do not waste money/confuse dell factory chimps by buying 2 types of RAM) however RAM bought in future may only run at its rated speed and may not have the ability to be downclocked, I am almost certain this is the case. Try and find the system or motherboard manual and check the RAM memory spec to be sure.
Thanks I believe that this board can run both PC2700 and PC3200, I am inclined to suggest he try a gig of PC2700 and see if the dam thing boots.
He bought 2 sticks (2 x 1GB) so He would be extremely unlucky if both were faulty. I believe this is the mobo in question. http://www.redplanettrading.com/Dell-Dimension-1100-B110-WF887-DE051-CF458-Motherboard.html I do not know if that helps you at all. Seems to suggest it supports three types or RAM.
You might want to try the bios reset jumper or leaving the battery and power out for a while, the bios should then re-configure itself around the new memory. It's probably expecting the old memory which will be set at specific timings. Even if you can't get the memory to run at 400MHz (3200), you could try running it at 333MHz (2700).
BAM! That was the missing info I wanted, motherboard service manual linky: http://support.euro.dell.com/support/edocs/systems/dim1100/en/SM/index.htm Drill down to tech specs: http://support.euro.dell.com/support/edocs/systems/dim1100/en/SM/specs.htm#wp1076752 I was slightly wrong, memory speed is limited by the CPU, wotcha got? If it is this the new RAM must be able to run at the reduced speeds. If you run CPU-Z with the old RAM the 'Memory' tab will confirm the current memory clock speed setting.
This query is for someone else so I will need to pass on your questions.thanks again you have been a great help.
