first, I dont know of a "General" problem with Outlook and exchange. Please read my post and note that the problem is with a specific Sony model laptop, MS Outlook 2k3 connecting to Exhcnage 2k. and that there were a total of 3 different laptop models and 3 seperate software packages and TWO different networks.
yeah, that would be a great solution, Exhcange, for someone who had that kind of time. Unfortunatly at the time, I did not have the time/patience to spend countless time troublshoooting the issues. If Tier 3 Sony and MS can't figure it out on 3 confernce calls totalling over 20 hours, then I, as a consultant, I pack my bags in, return the defective units before return policy warrenty runs out and get something to the client that works...quick!
To that effect, if I can post the information on what model Sony I was using and YOU can spend the time troubleshooting and finding out why. Again, I dont have the luxury of another 20+ hours on something that can be easily fixed by a unit that works.
Am I curious to find out why this config didn't work? sure, to an extent.
As to the options that I peformed
1. I reformated the laptop and started over
2. I reformated the Laptop and installed XP Pro from antoher CD. We installed the BIOS updates & drivers from the Sony site. once without Sony Tech. Again with Sony tech.
3. I reformated the Laptop from CD XP and JUST installed outlook 2k3.
4. involved MS with confernece all with Sony.
At this point, after 3 differnt calls, my time was running out. I needed to get a solution that works. For now, I will have to settle on reading why this configution failed from those who have the time and energy to resolve the issues.
Dan