Outlook PST file

[Auto University]

Okay, I had to reformat my HD on my home computer and re-install everything...

Put on Outlook using the same CD as before and of course when I attempt to import the PST files it says there is a compatible issue. Figured that perhaps I need to update office, so do that... nope still won't import.

Why is it that if I am using the same software as before, there is an issue with importing the PST files that were used before!

It is my wife's computer and she needs her contact for a mailing... we are all frustrated with it. Any suggestions?

 

[porcorosso]

I hesitate to tell you the way I handle this because I'm sure it's technically better to just import the data. When I take a PST file to a new system I just put the old PST file into the appropriate data directory in the user profile and use the "Data File Management" dialog in Outlook's File menu to get access to the contents of the file. It's probably a dorky way to do it, and you do have to futz around some to get Outlook to properly designate the old Contacts section as the default address book, but it works. I've never tried importing before. Weird, eh?

If you want someone (else) who actually knows what he/she is doing to help you out you might put a little more information in you request for help. You might specify the Outlook version and the exact steps you are taking. Depending upon the Outlook version it might also be nice to know if the PST file is the old style or the new style of PST. (I think it was Outlook XP / 2002 which allowed you to update the PST file type to the new one that allows bigger file sizes.)

 

[TG2]

Outlook XP is Outlook 2002, Outlook 2003 enabled marger than 2gb PST files.
What about, instead of importing the PST, try adding it as an additional one, then possibly copying the items over.

 

[Smilin]

Yea, what TG said.

Just open the PST file so you can view contents then copy the messages over to your new PST file that got created.

 

[nervegrind3r]

ill help ya if you can teach me how to service my volvo s60

seriously, outlook is a pain in the ass when you want to import all your backed up info. You can just place the pst file back in your user directory where it used to be located. I wouldn't try importing the file through the program, it wont work properly. Personally, I've always had trouble maintaining contacts and having them work properly after reinstalling. You should google this, you'll find lots of help