BleepingComputer.com: Almost Didn't Start (memory Error)

Hello
My computer almost didn't start today. It took several attempts to start up by using the power button on the tower. Error message then appears that states.
Firmware has detected that the system memory has decreased. The installed amount of memory in channel A is not equal to the amount of memory in channel B.
Maximum memory preformance is achieved with equal amounts of memory installed in each channel.
Press to Boot.
On doing this it still doesn't boot and I have to use the tower button several times. I went to crucial and checked the Belarc scan and they both found 4 sticks of 1024 memory, no issues

Gateway with 4gig memory
I am running Vista Home Premium

This error came up several months ago but I didn't have any start problems. The error has since gone away until now
Thank you
Tom Miller

"bump"

I'd suggest running this free memory tester to see what the issue is with your memory: http://www.memtest86.com/

Alternatively, you can use the Windows Memory Diagnostic that's built into Windows Vista by following the instructions at this link: http://www.lockergnome.com/blade/2007/02/1...iagnostic-tool/

USASMA thanks
I can't figure just how to use it though. I am running Vista on a Gateway with 4gig of ram, 4 sticks

The directions for MemTest are on their website. It involves making a bootable CD and booting from that to run the test.
The link to the description of the Windows Memory Diagnostic contains instructions on how to access it.

Thanks John I will attempt it. I'm lucky I know which way to point the mouse!

Edit: Ran the Vista Memory tool and came up with no issues.
Thanks again John

Since the Vista memory test didn't find any issues - has the amount of memory been changed in the system? There are instances where chipsets won't support the 4gB of RAM in 32 bit systems (usually has to do with hard drive communications through the motherboard).

What does the Reliability Monitor say about the errors? Click on Start and type "reliability" (without the quotes) and press Enter. In the Windows that opens, click on Reliability Monitor in the left hand pane to view the errors in the right hand pane.

What does Event Viewer have to say. To do this, click on Start and type in "eventvwr.msc" (without the quotes) and press Enter. Click to expand the Windows Logs, then click on System to see any errors there.

As this is a startup issue (rather than a Windows issue), there may not be any evidence in either tool. But since Windows is able to communicate with the BIOS and the CPU (in limited ways) there may be some evidence there.

Also, please let us know the exact model number of your Gateway so that we can check to see it's detailed specifications.

FWIW - I just went to 64 bit Vista because of these memory issues and my inability to figure out if my mobo would allow me to work with 4 gB of RAM in Windows.

Never knew Vista had all these nice tools. Unfortunately it didn't find anything. I removed and reseated the memory sticks and as of right now it is working alright. Gateway wants to change the motherboard. I just took out an additional 4 yr On site warranty.
I have a Gateway FX530XV 4 gig ram



Thanks John