Max amount of RAM that Win ME uses

[AdamP]

I have a question for you guys. I just installed 512MB RAM in my system with Windows ME. I was told that Win ME doesn't use more than 256MB RAM. Is this true? If not, what is the max amount it can handle?

Thanks!

[tazman]

I've read an article somewhere awhile ago that claimed that also. It stated that ME maxed out at 256 and 2000 at 512.

I'm running both o/s's as a dual boot on a 1/3 AMD, w/ 640 MB SDRAM which is probably alot of overkill - 'cuz I can, I guess

[Bsdboy]

It can use 512 check out here:
http://www.sysopt.com/forum/Forum9/HTML/004334.html

Bsdboy

[Sixpac]

Depends on your Motherboard Chipset.

Most VX will only use 64 megs and the rest (newer) will use more.

If you have a new computer (post 1998) then go nuts.

Sixpac>>>>

[DemonKnight]

the older windows 9x versions (95-98) didnt use more than 256 effciently, ME probably has had this issue fixed, windows 2000 will use up to 4 gigs of RAM (it has to hold up to most of its claims its microsofts bussiness OS)

[jad1097]

tazman, could you provide a link?

[This message has been edited by jad1097 (edited 07-28-2001).]

[RobRich]

Microsoft officially states 1 Gigabyte for Win9x/ME and 4 Gigabytes for WinNT/2K. Check the MS Knowlegde Base for more information at http://support.microsoft.com

Win9x/ME will work with upto 4 GB of memory installed, but the memory is not mapped in a linear manner, thus only 1 GB of memory will ever be used at one instance. Some have also complained of severe performance degredation with more than 1 GB installed, but I have yet to witness this side effect personally.

From the performance standpoint, WinME offers little benefit with more than 512 MB installed unless you tend to multitask twenty or more applications at a single time. If that is the case, you should be using Win2K in the first place.

If you are using WinNT/2K and seeking the best performance, then max out your motherboard with as much memory as possible. Considering the cheap prices of 256 MB modules, I would recommend 512 MB as a good starting point. For those needing serious multitasking support, then go for 1.5 GB or more if possible since the prices are boarding on ridiculously cheap. 3 x 512mb = 1.5 GB of high-density (check your m/b for support!) can be found for less than $150 at http://www.pricewatch.com

Robert Richmond

[RobRich]

Read my above post, those are the officially documented numbers. These are references directly from MS tech docs, not some third party source.

I trust shows like those on TechTV about as far as I can actually throw my 50" TV.

Robert Richmond

[DemonKnight]

I learned almost every thing I know about computers from the screen savers and call for help, both of which are on tech tv. I admit they may not be 100% right about every thing but they are good shows and they are live, trying to help people who call in. (Though it go to a point were it was the same type of question all the time and I watch them once a week or so now.) Every thing else I know about computers came from the internet and here.

[bill1971]

I've heard from some reliable TV sources that Windows98/ME can't "see" or actually use
any more than 512MB ; I believe 2GB can be used by WinNT or 2000.
I understand that in normal applications,you will not see much performance increase going from 256 to 512MB,(maybe 5% or so),but you
will see better performance from graphics-
intensive apps,e.g.,video-editing.

[This message has been edited by bill1971 (edited 06-26-2001).]

[hesher289]

I have tried running 1024mb with ME/A7V, blue screen error everytime. Switched back to 512, flawless. Its been about 3-4 mos. since my last attempt, maybe nows my big chance. I use 2000 advanced server(dual-boot) also, which has no problem with the added ram, the ME has been the limiting factor w/adding add'l ram previously.Using an addl mem. man. utility probably would hurt either.

[Ballastboss]

Appears 512mb is the sweet spot. http://support.microsoft.com/support...-US&SD=gn&FR=0


[This message has been edited by Ballastboss (edited 06-27-2001).]

[daveleau]

WinME can use up to 512, but it effectively uses up to 128. What I mean by that, is you will notice general speed increases in system performance up to 128. Anything after that has to do with heavy operations. If you are a graphic designer or love to do heavy multitasking, then you can benefit from more than 128.

Dave

[Crajy B]

I've read all these posting but I'm still confused. I have 392Mb of SDRAM and I want to run Windows 98 SE. Will there be any problems with using this much RAM? Some say 256 is the max... others say 512... I'm really confused.

[Fingers]

Crajy, whether the limit is 512GB or 1GB, you'll DEFINITELY be OK at 392MB.

I'm running 384MB right now on Win98SE... only because Windows gives vdx errors at 512MB.