RAM Size

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PlayOS

RAM Size

Post by PlayOS »

Hi,

I was just wondering if anyone knows how reliable direct probing the RAM is, I have done it and it works but I was just wondering how reliable it is and if there are better more reliable ways to do it.

Thanks.
Slasher

Re:RAM Size

Post by Slasher »

This question always sparks a heated debate amongst os developers. Some will argue its risky cause of mapped i/o space and address wrap arounds, while others will argue it is reliable. :o
There really isn't a single "CORRECT" answer cause both sides have valid points.
there are 2 things i'd like to say
1. if you are supporting old PCs then its probably okay
2. On newer PCs you could use the BIOS int 12h,int 15h (they are a number of memory functions in this call) to get the info you need
I haven't checked for the amount of installed memory in my os yet(i just assume they have at least 4mb for now) cause its something to be done in real mode for peace of mind with BIOS which we should believe works well enough with the chipset on the motherboard.
So its a matter of taste! :D
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