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September 18th, 2024 03:10
RAM 16GB + 32 GB
I have an Inspiron 3020 Desktop, which I bought in 2023 with a 16GB memory module. I recently bought a 32GB RAM module (compatible with this device) from Dell. When I added the 32GB module to the second slot, the system would not boot (power light flashing orange). The system boots after I removed the 16GB module and inserted the 32GB module into the first slot.
32GB is great (I actually notice the difference), but 48 GB might be yet better. Is it possible to combine the two modules to get 48GB?
These are the specifications:
Old Module: 16GB 1RX8 PC4-3200AA-UA2-13
New Module: 32GB 2Rx8 PC4-3200AA-UB2-12
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bradthetechnut
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September 18th, 2024 03:19
Are the 2 sticks the same brand? Some Dell's and PC's in general can be finicky about that. Also, mixing sizes could be an issue.
martg76
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September 18th, 2024 04:49
I think the original one is a Micron, but I found that out only by googling the serial number. The new one's brand is Kingston. Both came from Dell.
A51-06
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September 18th, 2024 13:11
@martg76 I'd check what DELL says is compatible with the board itself as I know 2x32gb works and 2x16gb works.
1x16gb module and 1x32gb together already sounds like an issue so check out the guide for your desktop.
RoHe
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September 18th, 2024 19:01
These are Dell's validated RAM configs for Inspiron 3020:
So 48 GB isn't officially supported, and may -or not- work, assuming the original and new modules are compatible with each other.
One thing to try is to reset BIOS:
(edited)
bradthetechnut
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September 19th, 2024 02:39
The 3020 is a newer model that only needs power button pushed for 30 sec. to reset BIOS.
If your desktop computer was produced before April 2020, the computer most likely has a jumper-based reset. Desktop computers manufactured after April 2020 use the RTC Reset ability.
I think RoHe is right about the supported RAM configuration with either stick working alone.
martg76
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September 24th, 2024 02:19
Thank you all for your answers. I'm happy with the 32GB and not sure whether it is worth trying the bios reset, which sounds risky. It just seems that I could have achieved the same result cheaper if I just had bought a 16GB module rather than a 32GB module.
A51-06
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September 24th, 2024 14:05
@martg76 100% it would've been easier with 16 gig sticks vs a 32 gig stick. Best of luck and come back if you got any questions.
RoHe
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September 24th, 2024 18:57
@martg76
A BIOS reset shouldn't do any harm.
Keep in mind that using 1x 32 GB means RAM is running in single-channel mode which is somewhat slower and less efficient than dual-channel mode.
You'd need two matched 16 GB modules to run in dual-channel mode. If you can return the 32 GB module for full refund, you might consider getting a matching 16 GB module to run in dual-channel mode.
Or just keep the 1x 32 GB, in case you ever decide you need 64 GB total, so you'd only have to buy another 1x 32 GB.
grzesznyplf8fcd6
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September 29th, 2024 00:35
As Rohe said, there is huge difference between 32Gb memory with one and two chips. With 2 chips system runs dual channel mode which means that both chips are used concurrently. It depends on type of workload but with one chip you theoretically sacrifice 50% of memory performance. Return 32Gb and get 16Gb or pull trigger for second 32Gb and future proof your PC for years to come.