Memory Problem

First problem is Dell Dem 2400 series computer upgrading memory to 1024mb my max is 1GB. I installed the single stick of 1024mb and removed my old memory. When I restarted my computer it made 3 beeps followed by 2 beeps and repeated this series twice, it fail to start. The screen was total blank and nothing came up on it. It seems to have stalled in the boot process and the memory is compatible with my computer. I reinstalled the old memory and it work fine. The stick of 1024 is brand new, do you think it could be bad memory? The stick is 1024mb 333mhz pc2700. The old one came with the computer and the computer is only five months old.

Second Problem is I'm planning on upgrading my memory in a Gateway 500s Plus computer. I've heard you must install Gateway memory for it to work, it this true? I'm wondering before I go out and buy some memory that does not work.
Thanks, Farris

What bios do you have? I don't recognise a 3-2 beep code. 3 beeps is usually a memory code, don't know about hte followup 2. Try reseating the ram, to be sure it was in firmly. Are you sure your computer supports the single 1gb stick, as opposed to 2x512? What speed was your old ram?

I Will have to get back to you tomorrow sometime after 5:30 pm. I will have all the information then. I have only two slots so would two 512mb sticks be any different form one stick of 1024mb, I thought they would be the same
Thanks, Farris

No, you often have to match them in pairs these days. So, you may need another 1GB simm identical to the one you've got, in many cases. Or, take it back for a pair of 512s. I think you can solo a 2700 though but you might need the 3 slot config .... if not you might need a pair.

FWIW I have a pair of 512s.

most of the time if you have 2 slots with a 1 gig limit you must use both slots. the reason being is in the memory controller. it just won't see a 1 gig stick. alos if using 2 sticks in these new machine ,really watch the memory a lot of the time it must be matched with the same manf, or it might need to be the registered memory type of ram.

You need registered memory for the athlon 64bit fx chips. Not much else uses it. Memory bought in pairs will naturally be the same manufacturer, but you don't need to match the original ram manufacturer, or anything like that.