Microsoft ActiveSync 4.5 Beta 2

[Mahstah]

Less than a month ago, Microsoft released ActiveSync 4.5 Beta 2. I’ve had a chance to test it out and it has proven to be a stable, functional release with some minor changes to its predecessor, ActiveSync 4.2 (don’t ask what happened to 4.3 and 4.4, you probably don’t want to know). For those of you that like to take the chance with beta software, you can download it here.

ActiveSync 4.5.JPG

Release details from Microsoft’s site:
“Changes in ActiveSync 4.5 Beta 2 help resolve issues related to setup, partnerships, and connectivity with the PC and Microsoft Exchange. In addition, it includes a troubleshooter utility that scans your computer and device to identify problems and offers information and corrective actions to solve them.

ActiveSync 4.5 Beta 2 supports PC sync via USB cable, Bluetooth, or infrared connection.”

They unfortunately haven’t chosen to accept wifi syncing again.

Microsoft also provides the following details about ActiveSync 4.5 Beta 2:
“• Faster file transfer speed and photo sync via Outlook are only available for Windows Mobile 5.0 powered devices.
• Remote PC Sync (via WiFi or LAN) has been removed due to Enterprise customer feedback around security issues.
• Customers using Microsoft Exchange 2003 Service Pack 2 with devices running the Messaging and Security Feature Pack for Windows Mobile 5.0 will benefit from the following feature enhancements included in ActiveSync 4.5: Direct Push Technology, local device wipe, and certificate powered authentication to Microsoft Exchange.
• Microsoft® Outlook® 2000 is not supported by ActiveSync 4.5 Beta 2. It is highly recommended that users upgrade to Microsoft® Outlook® 2003 messaging and collaboration client.
• Conversion of database files for use on a mobile device is not supported by ActiveSync 4.5 Beta 2. On previous versions, this feature was limited to devices running Windows Mobile software for Pocket PC 2003 and earlier.
• Conversion of font files for use on a mobile device is not supported by ActiveSync 4.5 Beta 2. On previous versions, this feature was limited to devices running Windows Mobile software for Pocket PC 2003 and earlier.
*Connectivity and synchronization may require separately purchased equipment and/or wireless products (e.g., WiFi card, network software, server hardware, and/or redirector software). Service plans are required for Internet, WiFi and phone access. Features and performance may vary by service provider and are subject to network limitations. See device manufacturer, service provider and/or corporate IT department for details.”

Check it out and enjoy!

[Bugman]

hmmm -- does it work with Outlook 2002 on the desktop computer?

[jimchen]

I found 4.5 is much slower than 4.2, it seems to take longer to syn (more specifically, it takes longer to find the "changes", file transfer between ax and PC is slower). Could not figure out why. Also, I have to soft reset the Ax sometime to make a successful connection.

Detail: Syc items: contacts, calendar, tasks, and ListingData by PTVL. The delay occurs for finding changes of the ListingData.

[Pedah]

Originally Posted by Bugman

hmmm -- does it work with Outlook 2002 on the desktop computer?

Sure does, but read Jimchens post!

[Pedah]

Originally Posted by jimchen

I found 4.5 is much slower than 4.2, it seems to take longer to syn (more specifically, it takes longer to find the "changes", file transfer between ax and PC is slower). Could not figure out why. Also, I have to soft reset the Ax sometime to make a successful connection.

Detail: Syc items: contacts, calendar, tasks, and ListingData by PTVL. The delay occurs for finding changes of the ListingData.

Hey Jim, I find that sinking big databases is the most time consuming thing with 4.5 and decided to stop, sync manually from database [PDAcookbook]. I was syncing about 2500 files and then my own stock and measurement data and it took forever so I took it out of sink settings and I get a normal quick sink. I took it out of AS sink list and everything went back to normal. I found the same thing when I tried to sink media.