Shared RAM

[Kam Leo]

On Mon, 21 Feb 2005 12:46:22 -0700, Mike Hoy <mhoy4 at cox.net> wrote:
> Mark Panen wrote:
> 
> >Hi
> >
> >How does this shared RAM story work. My laptop specs state that i have
> >512 MB RAM but free only shows about 448, ok so i know 64 is going to
> >the vga card.
> >
> >What my question is, have i got 512 installed or do i have 448
> >installed and a 64 MB vga card, maybe i should answer my own quesion
> >as i don't think you get 448 MB RAM.

512 MB as adverttised.  VGA with zero private.

> >
> >I just don't understand why free shows up 448  and not 512 ? Is the
> >vga chip taking the RAM away on boot ?

Yes.  The BIOS setting enables a hardware switch which diverts 64 MB to vga. 

> >
> go into BIOS and change it if you like
>