I have recently upgraded my memory from 1gb (2x Kingston 512Mb) to 2gb (adding 2x Corsair 512Mb).

Since then I have noticed the computer is slower and struggles with multi-tasking. I have run a test (CheckIt Diagnostics from Smithmicro.com) which states:-

Optimizing test memory size...

Memory allocation failed!

Test failed.

Found error(s).

Troubleshooting tips:

1. If memory allocation error occurs, quit all other running programs if possible, or check hard disc's free space and increase the virtual memory size if possible and redo the test.

2. If memory data error occurs, try disabling external cache or changing wait state timing in BIOS setup utility if possible.

3. Reinstall CPU, cooling fan and memory modules or use the least amount of memory module(s), maybe 1 or 2, and then redo the test.

4. If problem still exists, you may need to replace the memory modules or the external cache if possible.

If I take out the new memory the test works fine, and if I only use the new memory it works fine. I have 8gb free HD space.

It sounds like it could be a BIOS error but I am not sure what to change.

Any advice?

Thanks,

Jon.

it could be your motherboard is not happy with 2GB, we had no end of problems at work when we tried it with an intel 845 chipset. Fine with 1GB though.

Maybe the Kingston and Corsair modules aren't compatible with each other? Have you tried running 1GB using one of each?

I've tried running one of each and although it passed the test, it is extremely slow. It must be a compatibility problem.

do they both have the same CL rating, speed rating etc?

What chipset do you have as the i845 only supported 1GB of RAM (There were a few boards that came out with lots of DIMM sockets, but most had less for a reason)

That's possible too, and actually provable, unlike the incompatibility between makes problem, although Gilly has done the test to show that there does seem to be an incompatibility there.

If the chipset's not the issue, I'd suggest returning the Corsairs, and getting Kingstons from the original supplier, or asking Crucial about Kingstons or Kingston-compatibles.