Manual vs CMD Maximum RAM

[ParisG]

Hi, I want to upgrade my RAM and I can't be sure what the max capacity is. Manual says 8GB and Command Prompt when I put the command wmic memphysical get MaxCapacity, MemoryDevices it returns "max capacity 16777215" and "memry devices 2".

So do I need to install 2x4GB ram or 2x8GB if able?

[Paul_Tikkanen · Accepted solution]

Hi:

Unfortunately, that is a decision you will have to make on your own.

Normally the command you ran is accurate, but on those older PC's there could be issues with BIOS limitations restricting the amount of memory you can install.

What is going for you...

The Windows report indicates 2 x 8 GB of memory is supported.

The Intel specs for your notebook's processor indicates a max of 32 GB is supported (that is with 4 memory slots).

Intel® Core™ i5-3230M Processor (3M Cache, up to 3.20 GHz) rPGA

What is against you...the service manual.  Chapter 1 indicates the max is 2 x 4 GB.

c03763129.pdf (hp.com)

What you could do is this...buy a single 8 GB DDR3L-1600 memory chip and install it along with the one you have installed now.

If it works and the PC recognizes the total amount of memory installed, then you would probably be safe to add the second 8 GB memory chip.

This should be a compatible 8 GB memory chip for your notebook if it supports 16 GB.

Crucial 8GB DDR3L-1600 SODIMM | CT102464BF160B | Crucial EU