I have a Pent III, 128 MB RAM, I took out the 128, and installed 2) 256. Computer is compatible, slots are ok?

Question

Computer does not recognize, or puts up a screen wanting to run in safe mode.
How do I change the BIOS?
Or is there a simple way to get the computer to boot up to Windows?

Answer 1

You probably got the wrong kind of ram. There are several kinds of the same ram, like buffered, ECC, non ECC, unbuffered, and a few others. You can find out what kind yours is by going to http://www.techdepot.com and look to the left for the memory finder. It will tell you what kind you need. You can buy it there, but its expensive there. I go to Pricewatch for mine.
http://www.pricewatch.com/memory/

Answer 2

Check to see if the new RAM is truly compatible with the the motherboard. I assume the computer was running fine, if a bit slow, with the original RAM? If so, do the PC numbers and Mhz numbers match on the old and new RAM? For example, if the old RAM was PC 120, 200 Mhz then you'll get "for sure" combatibility by getting RAM with the same PC and Mhz numbers. If you have access to your motherboards manual or the website of the motherboard maker, you can check to see which RAM types it is combatible with. Some Mobo's can use more than one speed of RAM. If you do not have access to either of these, take your PC to a PC repair shop or good retail shop like Fry's, Circuit City etc. and have the technician look up the specs for your mobo.

Answer 3

Hi. I would start by pulling one of the 256 sticks out and try booting. Then swap for the other 256 stick and try again. If neither works, reinstall the 128 and look at the BIOS. Maybe the FSB needs to be set to auto. Good luck!

Answer 4

You may want to check and see if it's a PC 100 or 133
card. PC 100's won't work in Pentium III, and some motherboards will only accept like 64 mb pre slot.