ActiveSync Generates a "Synchronization Error" Error Message if the Repl.dat File Is Missing (281598)


The information in this article applies to:

  • Microsoft ActiveSync 3.6
  • Microsoft ActiveSync 3.1
  • Microsoft ActiveSync 3.0
  • Pocket PC Phone Edition 1.0
  • Microsoft Pocket PC 2002
  • Microsoft Windows CE 3.0 Professional Edition for the Handheld PC
  • Microsoft Windows Pocket PC with Windows CE 3.0
  • Microsoft Windows Powered Pocket PC 2003
  • Microsoft Windows Powered Pocket PC 2002
  • Microsoft Windows Powered Pocket PC 2000
This article was previously published under Q281598

SYMPTOMS

When you try to synchronize your mobile device by using Microsoft ActiveSync, you may receive the following error message after you connect the device:
Synchronization Error
When you receive this error message, ActiveSync indicates that your mobile device is connected, but you may be unable to obtain access to the device. The synchronization status displays a "Synchronization Error", while the Synchronization Status icon is green with a red exclamation point. When you encounter this issue, you are unable to complete the synchronization process.

CAUSE

This issue can occur if the Repl.dat file is missing from your computer. The Repl.dat file contains partnership information, and should be located in the C:\Program Files\Microsoft ActiveSync\Profiles\partnership name folder. Note that the preceding folder location may be different if you chose a different folder when you installed ActiveSync. If you are not using the correct Repl.dat file, synchronization with the current partnership is no longer possible.

RESOLUTION

To resolve this issue, delete the current partnership, and then create a new partnership:
  1. With the mobile device disconnected from your computer, start ActiveSync, click Delete Partnership on the File menu, and then click the partnership you want to delete.
  2. Soft reset the mobile device. For information about how to do so, view the documentation that is included with your the mobile device.
  3. IMPORTANT: When you perform this step, if you have data on your mobile device that is not yet on your computer, you should choose Combine when you receive a message that asks what you want to do with existing data on the mobile device.

    Connect your mobile device to your computer, and then modify your initial settings by using the New Partnership Wizard. Note that the New Partnership Wizard automatically starts after you connect your mobile device.
Modification Type:MinorLast Reviewed:8/18/2005
Keywords:kbenv kberrmsg kbprb KB281598
©2004 Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved.