Dual channel memory confusion

[christopherprevails]

I have two matching 256MB that came with my computer. When I start my computer, it says something like 'running in single-channel mode'. Does this mean it's only utilizing one stick? How do I change it, if so?

 

[vanvock]

Look at the count for the mem, 256= 1 stick, 512= 2. The motherboard has to support dual channel & the sticks have to be in the correct slots.

 

[Jiggz]

Check your mobo manual to make sure the rams are inserted in the right slots. Also check the bios to make sure dual channel mode is enabled.

 

[Tsaico]

and often the slots for the memory are paired showing the same colors. example would be slot 0 and 2 are blue, and 1 and 3 are black, so dual channel will have to have the slots populated with those particular pairs.