Transcript: Mobile Devices - ActiveSync, July 1, 2004
Published: July 10, 2004
Chat Date: July 1, 2004
Please note: Portions of this transcript have been edited for clarity
Introduction
Moderator: Jana (Microsoft)
Welcome one and all to today's Mobile Devices - ActiveSync chat. This is the first time hosting a chat for our host, so go easy on us;)
Moderator: Jana (Microsoft)
I am Jana Carter and am a Product Manager on the Communities team. I manage the chat program.
Host: Ann (Microsoft)
Hi, my name is Anh and I'm a Program Manager on the ActiveSync team for Windows Mobile
Host: EdH (MVP)
Hi, I am Ed Hansberry, a Mobile Device MVP.
Host: ToddO (MVP)
I'm Todd Ogasawara... Also Mobile Devices MVP
Moderator: Jana (Microsoft)
Glad to have our MVPs in the house today. MVPs Rock!
Moderator: Jana (Microsoft)
OK, let's get started. Fire away with your questions.
Start of Chat
Moderator: Jana (Microsoft)
Q: Is it possible to remotely VPN to an ActiveSync connection to connect with Outlook? Wondering if it's worth putting the time into configuring my Smartphone.
A: yes, synchronizing with BCM is something that we are looking at. We've seen lots of interest in this area!
Host: EdH (MVP)
Q: Is it possible to remotely VPN to an ActiveSync connection to connect with Outlook? Wondering if it's worth putting the time into configuring my Smartphone.
A: Yes. As long as you are VPNing into your network and all of the server DNS settings are OK, it should find your machine and begin syncing assuming you've enabled it in ActiveSync.
Host: EdH (MVP)
Q: I have a problem with my PPC (WM2003). If I insert a new appointment and set a reminder - then perform an ActiveSync - I only get the reminder on my PC via Outlook, but not on my PPC (neither sound nor visual). Any ideas? Thanks!
A: If you set a reminder on your PPC, does that sync back to your desktop?
Host: ToddO (MVP)
Q: Will the Mac ever be supported?
A: Microsoft has not indicated any plans for the immediate future.
Host: EdH (MVP)
Q: Does anyone know how to sync multiple contact folders from Outlook XP (2002) to my Pocket PC 2003 without moving all of the contacts into one folder? I've tried Outlook PCS, but it just moves all of my contacts into one folder.
A: No, not directly. There is an article on how to take advantage of categories in Outlook with one Contacts folder. Do you want that link? It isn't exactly what you are asking for, but it really works well.
Host: ToddO (MVP)
Q: Any chance ActiveSync is going to be developed to support >1 device at a time? More and more people are going to have a Pocket PC and a Smartphone (and more!)
A: Although you cannot sync two devices simultaneously, you can partner with more than one device
A: (continued). For example I have multiple Pocket PCs and Smartphones synced to a single PC
Host: EdH (MVP)
Q: Just installed windows on a new primary HD, and setup my Pocket PC to sync via USB, but now I can't get it to sync via WiFi. Any way to reset that on the Pocket PC side?
A: Have you manually recreated a primary partnership via a cradle first? You cannot establish partnerships with WiFi/network connections.
Host: Ann (Microsoft)
Q: On my PPC if I check a task as completed, and I have two partnerships, the tasks never get removed from the device which results in lots of clutter. On Palm it just works. Any plans to fix this?
A: Yes we have plans to improve this
Host: EdH (MVP)
Q: Any plans to expand the uses of notes? I would like proper support for notes supporting categories and not just bunched with the files in File Manager.
A: I know that the OneNote team has worked on better integration with Notes on the PPC, but beyond that, I know of no future plans. Consider a third party product like HPCNotes.
Host: ToddO (MVP)
Q: Why does a Pocket PC only support two sync partners? Many people have a desktop, laptop and a business PC.
A: My understanding is that Microsoft is looking at increasing this number in the near future.
Host: ToddO (MVP)
There is a third-party solution from MyDocs Unlimited (the MightySync people)
Host: Ann (Microsoft)
Q: When are you planning to release the next big ActiveSync build?
A: Stay tuned there are some exciting announcements in the near future!
Host: EdH (MVP)
Q: To re-iterate. Are there plans to allow two devices to actually be connected at the same time?
A: Microsoft has not indicated any plans for the immediate future.
Host: ToddO (MVP)
Q: Does anyone know how to sync multiple contact folders from Outlook XP (2002) to my Pocket PC 2003 without moving all of the contacts into one folder? I've tried Outlook PCS, but it just moves all of my contacts into one folder.
A: There are third party products that can deal with folders. However, we generally recommend using Categories.
Host: EdH (MVP)
Q: When a file is out of sync, could you provide binary comparison option instead of checking file date to determine which one is what I (user) want?
A: No. It isn't a straight file copy, so even though the data may be identical, the binary comparison would be different.
Host: EdH (MVP)
Q: Are there any plans to improve the conversion from Word to and from the PC without losing formatting? When?
A: Microsoft has announced no immediate plans for this, but I can say, they are aware that this is an often requested feature.
Host: EdH (MVP)
Q: Any plans to improve the conduits for Tasks/Appointments to support 3rd part programs like Pocket Informant (i.e. Contact picture sync, extra O2003 fields and Deferred/In progress for tasks)?
A: Developers have the opportunity to write their own ActiveSync conduit.
Host: EdH (MVP)
Q: (rephrased): I'd like to be able to store items with "Work" Category on my work machine, "personal" category on my home machine, but be able to sync ALL categories on my PPC. Anyway to do it now? or the future?
A: No way to do that now. It is an often requested feature, but MS has made no announcements on this.
Host: Ann (Microsoft)
Q: I have "include file attachments" unchecked for my inbox synching. However, sometimes I want the grab a certain attachment (which I can see as a shadow in the msg.) I currently have to change the active synch settings, include attachments and resync
A: This is a great suggestion and one that I personally find very useful. We’ll definitely evaluate this in the future
Host: EdH (MVP)
Q: I've got a problem with the Mobile Device mount. If I disconnect my device while viewing a directory within it, it won't re-connect till I close all explorer windows and dis/re connect the device. Is this known?
A: That is a special Explorer window, so yes, that really should be closed.
Host: EdH (MVP)
Q: how do I get rid of persistent 'unresolved favorites'
A: Sometimes the best way is to remove them all from the MOBILE folder on your PC, sync, then copy them back a few at a time.
Host: Robin (MVP)
Q: Why were Tasks and Notes not included in for Server Active Sync? I update Tasks during the day on both PC and PPC and would like to keep them in sync over the air. Any plans for the future?
A: This is a popular request. We are looking into this for a future version.
Host: EdH (MVP)
Q: Have you considered an option to disable ActiveSync Passthrough. My company does not allow POP or IMAP access so I would love to be able to use GPRS to update my e-mail while the device is in the cradle
A: Good suggestion. I know of no plans for this, however, you can disconnect the cradle connection by clicking on the networking icon on the Today screen and then disconnect. This will let it charge while you are connected via GPRS. I do it all the time.
Host: Ann (Microsoft)
Q: When I remove my iPAQ from the cradle I get an ActiveSync error on my PC. I always send the info to MS. No clue what's happening though. Syncs fine, reconnects with no problem. Just errors on every disconnect. Any way to troubleshoot this?
A: What is the error that you get? That’s good as long as you can reconnect and sync. If I were troubleshooting it myself, I would grab the desktop logs. I can send directions on how to do that if you have a support agreement with your OEM or our product support team. Also, if you download 3.7.1 you should see improved connectivity.
Host: ToddO (MVP)
Q: Will a utility to fix common ActiveSync problems ever be available or will you release info so one can be created?
A: There is a web-based ActiveSync Connection Wizard. Unfortunately that page seems offline right now. But, it is being looked into.
Host: EdH (MVP)
Q: Any chance of getting ActiveSync to allow PC->PC sync? Eg, laptop and desktop!?
A: No. ActiveSync is a PC to Mobile Device conduit. There are software programs for syncing Outlook for your PC. Look at http://www.slipstick.com for suggestions.
Host: Robin (MVP)
Q: I don't get your question, I can sync tasks and notes with my wireless connection
A: You can sync tasks with the desktop, but not if you sync directly to the server
Host: EdH (MVP)
Q: Any hope of allowing an ActiveSync backup to be remotely initiated from the ActiveSync Pocket PC component?
A: Sprite Backup already does this. I haven't heard of any plans to implement this into ActiveSync.
Host: EdH (MVP)
Q: Any chance of default partnership settings? I always sync my entire phonebook, and all future appointments, but have to manually do this every time I add a cold-started or new device (pretty regular, by PPC runs flat all the time!)
A: Great suggestion. I'll make sure this is submitted. I've often wanted the same thing. :-)
Host: Ann (Microsoft)
Q: When try to synchronize with my exchange server, I get this error: HTTP_404 - why is that? I have changed IIS to use port 8080 instead of default 80, is that the problem?
A: The 404 is generally when the server did not find anything matching the request URL. There could be many reasons why the request was refused and the 404 was returned. It could be a connectivity problem but check the URL first.
Host: Robin (MVP)
Q: Just as a matter of interest, how many full time staff have MS got on AS?
A: Less than work on Windows :-)
Host: EdH (MVP)
Q: When syncing AvantGo and network is slow, why is AS using 100% CPU utilization? Is it using poor loop in the code?
A: I have seen that, and that is AvantGo code. You would need to ask their support department.
Host: Ann (Microsoft)
Q: If you can send me the directions (assuming being under warranty qualifies) I'd appreciate it.
A: Go to Start -> Run Type in %temp% and hit enter. This should take you to your Temp folder Find the following files and attach them to email or to the bug: Overall Sync Manager - Wcesmgr.log Communications - Wcescomm.log Shell Extension - Wcesview. Setup - Activesync.log Desktop AirSync - Wceslog.log Outlook Interaction - Outstore.log Not all of these may be present but gather as many as possible.
Host: EdH (MVP)
ActiveSync works fine via IR, USB or WIFI. When I sync via Bluetooth on the road, the connection is successful, but it gets interrupted with: ActiveSync cannot recognize the device for 2 reasons...
A: Unfortunately, this is trial and error. The Bluetooth solutions for Pocket PCs and desktops is so varied these errors crop up for some and others have absolutely no problem. Might try the newsgroup and post specific device/driver info to see if anyone else has your setup.
Host: EdH (MVP) Task Reminder times do not sync from desktop to PPC. Tasks are always assigned "8 a.m." in PPC even though the Reminder time in desktop Outlook is NOT 8 a.m. Is this an ActiveSync problem?
A: More of a Tasks problem on the Pocket PC. Third party apps like Pocket Informant and Agenda Fusion work around this.
Host: Robin (MVP)
By the way, the ActiveSync team at Microsoft is hiring.
Host: Robin (MVP)
Here are some links to job descriptions:
Host: Robin (MVP)
http://www.microsoft.com/careers/search/details.aspx?JobID=2daa744a-294a-4ddc-8877-3390d42a6596, http://www.microsoft.com/careers/search/details.aspx?JobID=f13035a2-efad-4d39-a6fb-8d049b27cef8, http://www.microsoft.com/careers/search/details.aspx?JobID=0b3fe0d0-fd41-4af2-877b-d0058b0c7bf7
Host: Ann (Microsoft)
Q: Note to Microsoft, average Joe don't like to look at .log file to solve problem! Give me options!!
A: Yes, for sure. Our goal is to improve the reliability so there is no problem and we are totally dedicated to that. But the user asked for how to get logs ;-)
Host: Ann (Microsoft)
A quick note before we end: if you are interested in joining the Business Contacts Manager Sync Provider BETA, please send an e-mail to MSBCMV2A@Microsoft.com. Note that we will be selecting only a small number of participants, so there is no guarantee you will receive a spot; also, that e-mail address is not monitored actively so please do not expect a reply to e-mails sent there.
Moderator: Jana (Microsoft)
That about wraps up our chat today. We want to thank all of your for coming. The team is walking away with some good ideas from you all.
Moderator: Jana (Microsoft)
Thanks to our MVPs for hosting today and to our ActiveSync team!
Host: Robin (MVP)
Thanks for all the great questions and feedback on ActiveSync!
Host: EdH (MVP)
Thanks for joining us. You can find me at www.pocketpcthoughts.com if you need additional help, or come back to the chat next month!
For further information on this topic please visit the following:
Newsgroups: Windows XP Newsgroups
Transcripts: Read the archive of past Mobile Devices chats.
Website: Visit the home page for Windows XP
