When you install new RAM in your computer, it’s expected to enhance performance, enable smoother multitasking, and improve overall responsiveness.
However, sometimes your system doesn’t recognize the newly installed RAM. Now, if you are experiencing similar issues then, read through this article to know the reasons and solutions to fix it.
Why is my installed RAM not showing up?
Here are some common reasons why installed RAM is not showing up.
- Windows Architecture – Using a 32-bit version of Windows can limit your RAM to 4 GB, regardless of the amount installed.
- Windows Version Limits – Different versions of Windows have specific RAM capacity limits.
- System Configuration Settings – The Maximum Memory option in the System Configuration settings might be limiting your usable RAM.
- Integrated Graphics – Systems with integrated graphics may allocate a portion of the RAM for graphics, reducing the available amount.
- Motherboard Limitations – Your motherboard might have a maximum RAM capacity. Check the manufacturer’s specifications.
- Physical Installation Issues – Improperly seated RAM sticks or faulty RAM slots can prevent the system from recognizing the RAM.
- Overclocking the RAM – Overclocking your RAM can also be the reason why it is not getting recognized by your system.
What to do when installed RAM is not showing up?
When installed RAM is not showing up follow the methods described here to fix the issue.
1. Check Your Windows Architecture
One common mistake is not checking your Windows architecture before upgrading your RAM.
Windows versions come in two architectures: 32-bit and 64-bit.
32-bit Windows can only register 4 GB of RAM, even if you have more installed.
To check your architecture follow these steps:
- Type “About Your PC” in the search bar and select the top result.
- In the window that appears, check the System type under the Device specifications.
- If you have 32-bit Windows, install the 64-bit version to utilize more RAM.
2. Check Your Windows Version
Windows versions have limits on the amount of RAM they can use.
For example, Windows 7 Home Basic 64-bit has an 8 GB RAM limit.
Check the physical memory limit of your Windows version by referring to this link.
Ensure your Windows version supports the amount of RAM you have installed.
3. Disable Maximum Memory Option
Memory on Windows can be limited by certain settings in the System Configuration. To disable the maximum memory option follow these steps:
- Press Windows + R to open the Run utility.
- Type “msconfig” in the command box and press Enter.
- In the System Configuration window, click the Boot tab and select Advanced options.
- If the Maximum memory box is checked, uncheck it.
- Click OK, then Apply, and OK again to save changes.
- Restart your PC to boot with the entirety of your installed RAM.
4. Check for Usable RAM
If your system has integrated graphics, it will use some of your system’s RAM. Now here is how to check for usable RAM:
- Again type “About Your PC” in the search bar and select the top result.
- Check the Installed RAM in the Device specifications.
If your PC has integrated graphics, the installed RAM will be shown with the usable portion indicated. Consider getting a dedicated graphics card to free up system RAM.
5. Check Motherboard’s RAM
Motherboards have RAM size limits.
Enter BIOS to check the system information for recognized RAM sticks. If your PC skips BIOS, then you can follow this guide to know what to do.
The process of booting into BIOS differs from system to system.
You can check the manufacturer’s website for the exact process to boot into your BIOS.
You can also take the help of the user manual to boot into your BIOS.
Here are the basic steps to enter into BIOS or the UEFI settings –
- Open your Windows Settings.
- Then click on the Restart Now button next to Advanced Startup.
- Once your PC restarts, select Troubleshoot then go to Advanced Options. Then you should find the UEFI Firmware Settings.
- Once you boot into BIOS, check the system information for recognized RAM sticks.
If BIOS recognizes the RAM but Windows does not, the issue lies with Windows. If BIOS doesn’t recognize all the RAM sticks, check your motherboard’s RAM limit on the manufacturer’s official website.
Also Read: Computer Won’t Boot After Bios Update – How To Fix?
6. Try Reseating RAM
Re-seating RAM can be a simple and effective fix if your RAM isn’t being recognized. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Ensure your computer is completely turned off and unplugged from any power source.
Remove the side panel of your computer case to access the motherboard.
Find the RAM slots on your motherboard. These are usually near the CPU.
Gently, press the clips on either side of the RAM stick(s) to release them and carefully pull the RAM out.
Insert the RAM stick back into the slot, ensuring it is aligned correctly and firmly seated. The clips should click back into place.
If you have multiple RAM slots, try inserting the RAM into a different slot to see if it registers.
After reseating, plug your computer back in, power it on, and check if the RAM is now recognized in the BIOS.
7. Seat the RAM in Another PC
If none of the solutions work, the RAM stick may be defective.
Try seating the RAM in another compatible PC to check if it works. If it fails, the RAM is likely faulty, and you will need a new one.
8. Avoid Overclocking the RAM
Overclocking RAM, which involves increasing the clock rate of your RAM beyond its default specifications, can also impact whether your system recognizes the new RAM.
Overclocking can lead to system instability, crashes, or even hardware damage if not done correctly. Additionally, overclocking might void the warranty of your RAM and other components
Wrapping Up
So, those are the solutions when installed RAM is not showing up. We hope you found a suitable solution from this guide. If you have any further questions, feel free to ask us in the comments section below.
