I have a desktop (Dell E510) that had 3GB memory and I run an x86 and x64 partition. The memory on the properties page of computer showed 3GB installed with no mention of usable for both x86 and x64 partitions. I just installed an additional 1GB of memory and now it shows 4GB installed with 3.62 GB usable. Performance monitor says it is reserved for hardware. I understand that graphics card can share memory but 2 questions arise. Why does it show up now and not when I had 3GB installed? The x86 shows 3.62 usable. I thought the max for x86 was 3.5?
It varies for each computer, some users report 3.2 and other like you 3.6, it all depends on the configuration of the PC and what resources are been used. With 4GB of ram installed, you would be better off running a 64-bit OS, as windows will be able to manage your memory more efficiently, and you will be able to use more than 4GB or ram in your computer.
I do run my x64 partition most of the time. However, I have a modem that doesn't have x64 driver that I use for faxing and I have an old Dazzle converter card that doesn't have an x64 driver.
The following table specifies the limits on physical memory for Windows 7. Version Limit in 32-bit Windows Limit in 64-bit Windows Windows 7 Ultimate 4 GB 192 GB Windows 7 Enterprise 4 GB 192 GB Windows 7 Professional 4 GB 192 GB Windows 7 Home Premium 4 GB 16 GB Windows 7 Home Basic 4 GB 8 GB Windows 7 Starter 2 GB 2 GB As you can see, these are the limitations. If you don't have an Intel GMA integrated graphic card, then you can use the 4GBReady patch on your Win7 x32 to be able to use the full memory. The limitation imposed by MS is purely commercial. The only real limitation is that in x32, an application can manage maximum of 2GB memory at a time. P.S. Who says otherwise, tell me why Win2003 SP2 x32 Enterprise/Datacenter can use up to 64GB?
Is there a link on how to do that? I mean, the 4GBReady patch on your Win7 x32 to be able to use the full memory. ?
Yes. I use it on my desktop computer which has a MSI motherboard, without video onboard. It has 4GB RAM DDR-400 and it is seen and used all. I have Win7 Ultimate x86 on it