subject: Process to Manage Outlook 2003 PST File Size [print this page] In Microsoft Outlook 2003, the PST file size increases considerably due to the regular inflow of incoming and outflow of outgoing messages.
2GB File Size Limitation: In Microsoft Outlook 2003 application version, the file size limit of PST file basically depends on the email account, which is in use. However, by default configuration, the PST files in Outlook 2003 have Unicode format. Though, during the use of Internet Message Access Protocol Version 4rev1 (IMAP4) or Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP) account, these Outlook 2003 PST files do not use this Unicode format. And this when, the 2 GB file size limitation, which basically exists in earlier versions of Outlook (2000/2002) due to ANSI (American National Standards Institute) format, also occurs in these accounts of Outlook 2003.
Heavy PST Files are Problematic: Even with Outlook 2003 Unicode PST, increased file size creates many issues and problems while you run the application. Heavy files lead to slower Outlook speed and performance in carrying out even the basic email operations like sending/receiving of emails, and storing of contacts etc.
Issues Faced Due to Large PST File Size: If you are an Outlook 2003 user and has been using this application for a long period of time now, then you might experience the below mentioned issues due to large PST file size:
Downloading of emails take considerably long time
Sending/receiving of emails become difficult and time-consuming
Your Outlook application starts hanging while you are performing usual email operations
The process of coping messages from one folder to another becomes sluggish
PST also fails to synchronize
PST starts functioning at an extremely sluggish pace
The general responsiveness of Outlook 2003 application slows down considerably.
Tips to Manage PST File Size: Following are some tips that will answer the question springing up in your mind about how to manage PST file size in Outlook 2003:
DELETE Whatever, Whenever You Can: Make it a habit to keep your mailbox clean. Regularly delete all the undesired PST mailbox items. Aldo, empty the Deleted Items folder on a daily basis if that folder doesn't contain any required data. You can compact your PST as it will result in freeing up the occupied space.
Make Use of the Archive Feature: Always, make use of the Outlook 2003 archive feature for moving the required PST email items to the archive folder.
Split PST to Manage PST File Size in Outlook 2003: You can manage Outlook 2003 PST file size in several ways that are talked above. Another way, which is one of the most recommended ones, is to use a third-party split PST tool. If you split PST file in Outlook 2003, it will automatically reduce the PST file size and you will be able to easily manage PST file size. You can use PCVITA Split Magic software to split large sized PST files into several smaller PST files. It is an output-driven tool, which is user-centric at the same time. This technically enriched PST split tool employs stat-of-the-art technology to help you get high-end results.
