ActiveSync Frequently Asked Questions

This document provides answers to frequently asked questions about ActiveSync and connecting to desktop computers with a mobile device.

Obtaining ActiveSync and Connecting a Device

Where can I get ActiveSync?: The current version of ActiveSync (version 4.2) can be downloaded from Microsoft. In addition, http://www.windowsmobile.com has a number of links to current software downloads for Pocket PC and should always have the most recent version of ActiveSync available.

How can I connect my mobile device to a desktop PC with ActiveSync?: There are various methods of connecting your mobile device to your desktop PC with ActiveSync. Possible options include USB, serial, Ethernet (LAN), and infrared.

When connecting with a serial cable, what options need to be changed?: With the cable connected to the device and the desktop PC, open the ActiveSync program on the mobile device. In the Tools menu, select Options. Then select the Options button. Ensure that the Enable PC Sync using this connection option is checked. Select 57600 Default from the dropdown list.

What is the difference between a Standard Partnership and a Guest Partnership?: The first time you connect a handheld device to ActiveSync you will see the New Partnership dialog box:

Select Standard Partnership only if you are going to use ActiveSync to synchronize Outlook data or other information from your desktop computer. A Guest Partnership will be sufficient if you are only going to copy files or install software to the mobile device. Because each device can only maintain partnerships to two desktop computers it is advised to connect using a Guest Partnership in most cases.

Can I connect to the Internet with my mobile device using ActiveSync?: It is possible to access the Internet on your mobile device using ActiveSync. Since version 3.6, ActiveSync has supported a Pass Through option that will cause the desktop computer to act as a gateway for the handheld computer to the network. To access the Pass Through option, connect your device to the desktop and select Tools > Options from the ActiveSync window. Depending on your network configuration, you may either select Work or The Internet from the Pass Through dropdown box. Although you can generally select The Internet, the correct setting will depend upon your network configuration.

Where can I find additional information about ActiveSync?: For additional ActiveSync information, please see Microsoft's ActiveSync web page.

Created by root
Last modified 2006-09-19 03:58 PM