Find solution
Why is the maximum memory usage 512?

I have a dell inspiron 8600 that is "locking up". Will more memory fix this ancient snail?

  • Pentium M 1.5 GHz processor, 598 MHz 512 MB RAM 200 pin Sodimm, DRR Memory. I run XP sp2 and use for surfing, Email and work Productivity. Software: MS Office Sm Business and Mcafee Internet Security. The Task manager shows 100% CPU usage often and this is when I just want to toss it in a lake. I show an average of 48 running processes which are mostly consumed by mcafee (15 or More) I have already paid for the macafee so let's not go there. I usually show available memory but the CPU usage is at 100%. Why is that?

  • Answer:

    Mcafee is your main problem in my opinion... secondly that is not that ancient of a computer. You need to download SpyBot Search and Destroy or AdAware and clean your system on spyware/adware. Also check you msconfig file for startup items you do not need running altho once they load you should not be seeing 100% usage. You can also get HiJackThis program, run it and export a log to post on numerous sites on the Net and people will help you find what is loading at startup that is harmful. You may just need to do a complete restore - did Dell bother to include restoration discs with your system? I would recommend getting rid of McAfee and using something like AVG that doesn't think it should control your computer...

Bob at Yahoo! Answers Visit the source

Was this solution helpful to you?

Other answers

Hi am Jeff, my advice is instead of spending more money on trying to fix your current pc, i would recomend going out and buying yourself a new pc which now come with windows vista, i currently own a vista system and there great. It may seem like a big investment but in the end you better off. you can find a good pc for what you are using it for, for a reasonable price from $399-$999+ it just depends how much you want to spend. I cant gurantee that just putting memory in your pc will help, but you can give it a try first if you think that is the best thing you can afford right now. I hope i helped a little, Jeff

jpj4321

Unless you're gaming on really intense games you should be fine with the ammount of RAM you have. 512 is not too bad really. Looks like you might want to get a new processor though, but make sure its compatible with your motherboard before purchasing. *Edit* That processor is WAY outdated and junk so that would definately be whats wrong.

cisco632

You may be better of just getting a new computer. I have seen several great deals both on and offline.

marksman11011

Related Q & A:

Just Added Q & A:

Find solution

For every problem there is a solution! Proved by Solucija.

  • Got an issue and looking for advice?

  • Ask Solucija to search every corner of the Web for help.

  • Get workable solutions and helpful tips in a moment.

Just ask Solucija about an issue you face and immediately get a list of ready solutions, answers and tips from other Internet users. We always provide the most suitable and complete answer to your question at the top, along with a few good alternatives below.