Overcoming the “Outlook PST is Not Compatible” Error: Expert Tips

Updated On - January 15, 2024 by Armaan | Reading Time: 3 minutes

Summary: In numerous instances, users encounter challenges while attempting to access their PST files on MS Outlook, leaving them unable to do so. However, worry not. We will explore both manual and professional solutions here that can swiftly resolve this error.

Introduction
We all know that MS Outlook saves data in PST file format on a real-time basis. These PST files save everything from emails, calendars, and journals to attachments and tasks. But at times, users complain that they are not able to access their PST files on MS Outlook. Every time they try to open their PST files, a pop message comes up that says, ‘MS Outlook PST is not compatible’. This error is a severe issue as it can prevent you from accessing your information. Let’s delve into the causes of this error and explore solutions to address it.

Causes behind the MS Outlook PST is Not Compatible Error

The MS Outlook PST file encounters compatibility issues, a common error faced by many MS Outlook users. This error occurs when users attempt to open a UNICODE PST File in an older version of MS Outlook that operates on the ANSI format. As a result, this error can be resolved only when you create a file in ANSI format, which is supported by the version of MS Outlook that you are using. There are some other reasons behind this error as well:

• Outdated version of MS Outlook.
• The PST file is corrupted.
• The PST file is oversized.
• The format of the PST file is not supported.

Solutions to fix Outlook PST is not compatible error

There are several methods to fix this error. Let’s go through them step by step:

Convert the PST files to ANSI format

1. Open any version of MS Outlook between 2003 and 2016, for example, 2010, on your system.
2. Once the program is running smoothly, locate and click on the File tab.
3. In the File menu, find and select the Info option, then choose Account Settings.
4. This action opens the Account Settings window; from there, select the Data File option.
5. In the toolbar section of Data File, click the Add button.
6. Provide a name for the file as the next crucial step in the creation process.
7. From the Save as type drop-down box, choose Outlook 97-2002 Data File as the saving option and click OK to proceed.
8. Click Yes when prompted to create in ANSI format.
9. Finally, click Close to complete the process.
10. Back in the Outlook Navigation pane, easily locate the newly created PST file. It’s time to transfer all data from the original PST.
11. To transfer all contents and items from the original PST to the newly created PST, execute a drag-and-drop action.

Use the Inbox Repair Tool

MS Outlook comes with an inbuilt repair tool, SCANPST.EXE. This tool helps to repair corrupt PST files. Here are the steps that you need to follow for repairing through this tool:

1. Open the Inbox Repair Tool (SCANPST.EXE). You will find this tool in the Microsoft Office folder.
2. Select the PST file that you want to repair and click on the Start button. The tool will start scanning the file and look for any errors therein.
3. If there are any errors, then click on Repair. Restart the application to see if the files can be accessed.

Convert PST files to a new format

1. Launch MS Outlook and navigate to the File tab.
2. Choose Open & Export, then click on “Import/Export.”
3. Opt for ‘Export to a file’ and select ‘Outlook Data File.’
4. Pick the folders you wish to export and designate a location to save the new .pst file.
5. Select the Outlook Data File (.pst) option.
6. The files will be converted to a new format.

Update MS Outlook

1. Ensure that your MS Outlook is up-to-date. Open MS Outlook, go to the File tab and click on Update Options.
2. If updates are available, click on Update Now, then restart the application. Attempt to open the PST file again.

Disable Add-ins

1. Launch MS Outlook and navigate to the File tab.
2. Select Options and proceed to Add-ins.
3. Choose COM Add-ins from the drop-down and click the Go button.
4. Uncheck all add-ins, then click OK.
5. Restart MS Outlook and attempt to open the PST file once more.

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Conclusion

We have thoroughly explored each solution to address the compatibility error, providing you with a seamless experience when accessing MS Outlook. If you still face any issues, then you can directly rely on the professional tool. Rest assured, you no longer need to endure the inconvenience caused by these technical errors.