Help -exporting pst files from Outlook 2003 to an earlier version

[Abrilet]

Hi,
I have been updating a contacts file for a client I work with on a remote basis. They sent me their pst file which I imported into my 2003 Outlook all without problem. When I send the exported file back to them, both by email and also on a CD, they say they can't import it and get a version compatibility message. They said they were using 2003 as well but it doesn't look like it from a screen dump they've just sent. Is there any way I can export this file so it can be read by an earlier version of Outlook? A bit desperate here so any suggestions would be so welcome. Thanks, Abrilet

 

[58sniper]

contacts file? Not sure what you mean here.

Contacts are typically exported as vCard formatted files, or, if there are many, are copied to a .pst file. If it's a .pst file, you can't open one from CD, as Outlook requires WRITE access to the file.

Pat Richard, MCSE(2) MCSA:Messaging, CNA(2)

 

[Abrilet]

Yep, sorry I probably didn't explain myself properly. I exported the whole contacts folder as a .pst file - which was then to be imported by the person I'd sent it to, back into her contacts in Outlook. She couldn't import it even though following the normal process via the wizard. Its a large folder and therefore sending v cards isn't practical.

 

[58sniper]

Well, they need to copy the file locally and remove the READ ONLY attribute.

Pat Richard, MCSE(2) MCSA:Messaging, CNA(2)

 

[JockMullin]

Hi, Abrilet

In Outlook 2003 when you create a PST you have the option of creating a 2003-format PST or a legacy PST.

If you didn't create it as a legacy PST then they will not be able to import into earlier versions. However, I must admit I haven't tried this myself, and it would not be the first time M'Soft made it difficult to support older versions.

Jock

 

[58sniper]

But he said both sides are supposedly using 2003.

Pat Richard, MCSE(2) MCSA:Messaging, CNA(2)

 

[cmeagan656]

He also said

They said they were using 2003 as well but it doesn't look like it from a screen dump they've just sent.

To determine what version of OL the client really is using have the client open OL and go help ->about. That will tell you (and them) definitively what version and SR level they are using.

Cheers.