Asus didn't load mine up with crap, just the OS.  I added network magic pro (if you have a home network and haven't tried this - you need to - it sorts out all kinds of compatibility and permission glitches).  Runs like a champ.  I don't use XP pro, and have never missed any features.

As to the recognition, I do not know.  I would just swap the memory card for the 2 GB model and then check in View System Information to see how much memory XP thinks you have.  If it still reports 1 GB, see note above.

Klebnor

Lotus 123 ~ S-Render ~ OS/2 WARP ~ IBM 8088 / 4.77 Mhz ~ Hercules Ultima graphics, Hitachi 10 MB HDD, 64K RAM, 12 in diagonal CRT Monitor (16 colors / 60 Hz refresh rate), 240 Watt PS, Dual 1.44 MB Floppies, 2 button mouse input device.  Beige horizontal case.  I don't display my unit.