“Why doesn’t my PC boot with more than 16GB of RAM?”

(Answer requested by “Weslo”)

The three primary reasons for RAM limitations:

There can be mathematical limitations: a 32-bit PC can only access about 4GB of RAM, because that — roughly 4 billion — is the highest you can count using 32 bits of data. A 32-bit operating system literally can’t “see” or access memory at higher-numbered locations at all; or only with some kind of kludgy helper app to translate the addresses down into 32-bit range.

There can be physical limitations: A 32-bit PC may lack the electrical connections to support 64-bit (or higher) memory operation. Again, if the PC can’t access the memory locations, it can’t use them.

There can be arbitrary limitations: Some vendors impose arbitrary caps on the type and amount of RAM their systems support. (This makes manufacturing and support cheaper for them; and steers customers towards higher-priced/better-spec’ced devices.)

What can you do if you need more RAM than your current PC allows? This:

• If your PC is 32-bit-based, you need a newer, 64-bit based PC.
  
• If your operating system is 32-bits, upgrade to a 64-bit version.
  
• If your PC simply can’t support the amount of RAM you need due to manufacturer-imposed limitations (check the vendor’s support site), you need a PC from a vendor who doesn’t impose such limitations.

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