I trying to install an upgrade of 2x2GB RAM 667MHz PC25300 DDR2 but each time I start the screen it doesn't boot and stays black. I went into the BIOS and there are no settings for memory adjustment and I placed it to default. I also went into msconfig Windows 7 and it only allows me 2 GB of memory max, when I put in 4 GB it defaults back to 2 GB. The machine is a Acer Inspire 5610.
Hello Walt now that machine does support 4GB RAM and I don't think you can alter the memoery speeds witha BIOS thta old I stand to be corrected of course.
What I suggest you do is put in the old RAM which I am guessing the machien came with and find out the timings etc using this
Using HW Info
PART A:
You can test the volts on the PSU with HW Info HWiNFO, HWiNFO32/64 - Download < download the right bit version and close the right hand window select Sensors and scroll down to the power section where you will see what the volts are doing see my pic. In my pic the section (Nuvoton) with VBATT as a dead give away you are in the section for the rail voltages. There are other section titles and one that pops up often is ITE (sometimes the usual one for Gigabyte boards)
Now the voltage on the different rails have to be within 5% =+/- of what is required or the machine will not work properly if at all.
Limits +/-
12v = 11.4 – 12.6v
5v = 4.74 – 5.25v
3.3v = 3.135 – 3.465v
The Power good signal voltage at pin 8 on the 24 pin plug (grey cable) should be the same as the 5v rail reading/s
See this for the rail voltage info
PSUs 101: A Detailed Look Into Power Supplies (Section 2.)
The original right hand window shows the machine running and is handy for that but for looking at the components in some detail close it and use the main left hand side panel
FOR OTHER COMPONENTS
PART B:
Open each small square with + in it on the section the components are in and then click on the individual component/s (it will highlight in blue) - in the right hand side will appear all sorts of details including brands speeds and other essential info that particular device. See pic for example.
Use PART B: and scroll down the right hand side panel to find exactly what they are. See pic of mine you need only highlight the sticks to find the speeds and timings
After that I would be inclined to get just one stick - 4GB RAM or at very least a matched pair (2x2GB) because that way it avoids any discrepancies in unmatched / different brand RAM
If you want some really good advice try Tradesman at here Welcome to the G.SKILL TECH FORUM - I do like G Skill as well too but he can advise you far more than I.
Hi,
Using msconfig and dedicating ram that way only accomplishes a very large hardware reserved which is a bad thing :)
Set it to 0 and uncheck the box.
As Thrash Zone has said a good point actually but if you are going to get new RAM just follow what I posted. But try TZ's fix first/
I downloaded HW Info HWiNFO and was not able to find the sensor section, I have a tecki who will help me today after work. I also downloaded and installed the latest BIOS 3.6 but it also does not have any updates on RAM control. So when I figure the difference on the HWINFO data how do I tweak it?
I also took the panel apart on the bottom of the laptop thinking that if I reset the CMOS that might have a effect but was unable to find the battery, is there a CMOS bat on this laptop? IF there is they sure made it hard to find.
I went in and defaulted the msconfig and it still doesn't allow the RAM to boot.
Hi,
I would install the original ram
Then use this to see what the upgrades were for this machine
Post a screen shot or a link to the findings
Crucial.com - Crucial System Scanner
Some laptops are sensitive to the kind of memory chips in use, single side x double side, latency etc. I have just replaced 2x1G DDR2 667 on a Sony laptop with 2x2G DDR2 800 (PC6400) and it's working fine. Are you able to try 2x2G DDR2 800 (PC6400)?
Yes mate there will be a CMOS battery it powers the BIOS chip and when you open the HW Info just close the first three small windows that show the machine running then click the Yellow Sensor button and you will be able to see details of everything in the machine just about like in my pic
Do remove the RAM and check on the slot for any damage, dirt, very small bits, etc; which may get stuck.
For the RAM itself, use the eraser to polish the gold contact and clear the tiny bits.
(Do it away from the laptop.)
When you insert the RAM on the slot, ensure all connection (gold contact) are fully in.
If not properly insert, it may not detect the RAM.
The method to remove and insert the RAM into the slot, do consult the manual on the steps.
CMOS 'coin' battery has nothing to do with the RAM.
Quote