Active Sync

Microsoft's utility to synchronize contacts, calendar, E-mail, files and more between PocketPC devices and desktop Windows machines.

ActiveSync for Windows mobile 2005 & Up

Windows Mobile 5 devices (Universal, Wizard, ...) require ActiveSync 4.x, the latest version of which can be found here

There seem to be problems using ActiveSync with firewalls other than Windows Firewall, and with some VPN clients. A troubleshooting guide by Chris De Herrera can be found on the pocketpcfaq.com website

For Windows Mobile 6, ActiveSync 4.5 is required.

Windows Mobile Device Manager

• replaces ActiveSync on Vista
• Windows Mobile 6 or 6.1 requires an upgrade to Windows Mobile Device Center 6.1

Troubleshooting

If you cannot complete an ActiveSync connection then try these steps:

1. Plug into a USB port and watch the Activesync status on your PPC. If fades out to no connection then try replugging into a different USB port and attempt by cycling between USB ports at least 4 times to see if you get a successful connection.
2. Restart your PC and softw-rest your PPC and then try again

3. If still nothing then on your PC open up a Command Prompt session with Administrative Rights (Start\Programs\Accessories\Right Click on Command Prompt and Run As An Administrator)and then enter:
   

   • set devmgr_show_nonpresent_devices=1
   • start devmgmt.msc
4. In device manager VIEW\SHOW HIDDEN DEVICES

5. Uninstall

   • Network adapters\Microsoft Windows Remote Adapter
   • Portable Devices\PocketPC
6. Under Programs & Settings\Remove Programs uninstall Activesynch or Windows Mobile Device Center and then reboot your PC.
7. Reinstall the latest version of Activesync/Windows Mobile Device Center
8. ...start over again from step 1, and cross your fingers.