2.16GB useable RAM on Windows 7

[ZBoater]

I have a MBA 2011 (i7) with 4GB of RAM. I run Windows 7 on Bootcamp and also run Parallels. I booted native into Windows 7 and noticed I only have 2.16GB useable RAM. I am running the 32 bit version of Windows, but still, this seems low. I am running a Dell 3007WFP 30" display connected to a dual-link DVI adapter. Not sure if that has something to do with it. Any ideas?

 

[Quad5Ny]

Windows 7 32-bit can only use 4GB of memory (even with PAE enabled; it's a restriction MS puts on 32-bit OS's).

Basically you take 4GB and account for the PCI memory hole (this includes video card memory) and then you've got your useable amount.

Why would you install 32-bit anyway?

 

[maflynn]

Yup that's normal and as Quad5ny posted, windows only gives you 2gb

 

[ZBoater]

Thanks for the replies. I am aware of the 4GB limitation, and what eats into that. My point was that 1.84GB is excessive. I have other machines that show 3.2 or 3.5 useable. The MBA has integrated graphics, so I doubt it has 1GB of video memory. There is something unique to the MBA that is consuming too much memory.

 

[wfielder84246]

I booted native into Windows 7 and noticed I only have 2.16GB useable RAM. I am running the 32 bit version of Windows, but still, this seems low

I have the same issue - I was aware that I wouldn't be able to access the full 4gb of Ram but thought I would at least get 3gb. OP have you managed to find whats eating the Ram when running Windows 7 on the MBA?

 

[ZBoater]

I have the same issue - I was aware that I wouldn't be able to access the full 4gb of Ram but thought I would at least get 3gb. OP have you managed to find whats eating the Ram when running Windows 7 on the MBA?

Nope, have not found a good answer. Another Apple vs. Windows quirk I guess.