How To Transfer Outlook 2002 Contacts To A New Computer

When users try to use Outlook 2002 ANSI files into later versions of Outlook like Outlook 2003, Outlook 2007 or Outlook 2010 32-bit, they get an error showing that the PST file is not compatible with the Outlook version. This problem is caused due to the incompatibility of ANSI content and the Unicode environment. When you come across such a scenario, your primary concern will be how to move the details in the ANSI PST files to the Unicode based file system. When you come across these Outlook problems, the solution available is to completely move the PST files from Outlook 2002 to latter versions through some third party software available.

If you are not using compatible environments, then you will get the error in the format “The file s1.pst is not compatible with this version of the Personal Folders information service. Contact your Administrator.” If you are getting this error, then what you need to infer is that the older version of the Outlook PST file in ANSI format is not compatible with the new version in the Unicode environment. 

If you come across this situation, then it means that you can lose much of your personal data, since most of the corporate enterprises use the Outlook software for managing their email and business contacts. The reason why a user is not able to transfer files in ANSI format to the Unicode environment in Outlook is because when you use the Import and Export wizard, the files are transferred via the Unicode format and the older versions of the Outlook program have no support for this format.

How to Transfer Files In ANSI Format To Unicode Environment

For transferring the PST file in ANSI format to the Unicode format, first click on the File menu in the Outlook program and then select the Data File Management feature. Now select the Add option and select the option named Outlook 97-2002 Personal Folders File and then click on the OK button. You can use this procedure to make your files work in newer versions of Outlook. Alternatively, if you would like to do it in the easy way, then use the PST upgrade option.

It is easier and better to use the PST upgrade software to change your contacts to newer versions. If you need any further assistance with Outlook problems, then contact the Outlook support team.