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Memory Problems

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7 replies

by mike_cary

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Recently my PC seems to be having memory problems whenever I access AOL. I'm running 256 MB of RAM, but am showing a high % of system resources being used. I ran the Norton Utilities 2001 software to check my memory and it showed an error. I replaced the 256 MB with a new one and received the same error. I replaced that with the original 96 MB sticks that were initially in the computer. The memory tested out OK, but AOL 5.0 still crashes after a few minutes. Any ideas ?

7 replies

by thechas

1. While they physically fit in the socket, the new memory modules (I assume SDRAM DIMMS) may not be electrically compatable with your motherboard.

If you have a socket 7 (Pentium/MMX, or a Slot 1 Pentium II/ Celeron) this is very possible.
About 20% of the older motherboards will not work with the newer DIMMs.

Check with one of the major RAM manufactures as to what RAM will work in your motherboard / system
www.crucial.com
www.kingston.com
www.pny.com

2. The AOL crashes may not be from a lack of real memory (RAM) but from insufficient virtual memory (Hard drive)
Start by cleaning out the folder C:\windows\temp
It is safe to remove files that are over 1 week old.

Then, clean out your Temporary internet files.
Then, empty the recycle bin.

Boot into safe mode (or, shut down all tray and back ground programs) and run Scandisk and defrag
on your drive(s).

Chas

by europanorama

why should he run scandisk/defrag in safe mode. i have windows me. does this have anything to do with the restore-option?

by b_pope

Norton system works has a known problem with their memory tester. When used to test systems with 256megs or greater it will always report an error.
Your memory is likely ok you can search for this artical at Symantec's web site, I can't access their site at the moment to find it.
You can disregard any errors involving memory as being your problem.

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