Converting ANSI PST to Unicode PST in Outlook 2016, 2013 & 2010

Read time 7 minutes

ANSI PST files, originating from MS Outlook 97-2002 versions, have a restrictive file size limit of 2GB and lack support for multilingual data. In contrast, MS Outlook 2003 and subsequent versions introduced Unicode PST files, which not only offer expanded storage capacity but also provide compatibility for multilingual data.

Creating an ANSI PST file is a straightforward process. The steps for creating ANSI PST files in Outlook 2016, 2013, and 2010 are quite similar. Follow the steps below to create an ANSI PST file.

1. Launch Outlook on your system, and select “New Items” from the home tab. Go to “More items” and select “Outlook Data file.”
2. Expand the “Save as type” section, select “Outlook 97-2002” data file, and click “OK.”

This way you can create an ANSI PST file. And the process of creating ANSI PST file is similar in Outlook 2010 and 2013 with the same steps.

Converting an ANSI PST to Unicode PST

While creating an ANSI PST file is a simple task, converting it to a Unicode PST can be somewhat complex. Nevertheless, there are several methods available to facilitate the conversion from an ANSI PST to a Unicode PST. In this article, we will explore two of these conversion methods.

• Create a new Unicode PST and import data from ANSI PST
• Convert ANSI PST to Unicode PST using Kernel for Outlook PST

One of the easiest methods to convert an ANSI PST to Unicode PST is to create a new PST file and import data from the ANSI PST file. To do this follow the below steps;

• Open any version of MS Outlook and click “New Items,” go to “More Items” and select “Outlook data file.” Give a name to the file and save this file at the desired location.
• Now, to import data from ANSI PST, click on the file tab and select “Import and Export” option.
• Select “Import from another program or file” in the opened wizard and click “Next.”
• Select “Outlook data file” in the next tab and click “Next.”
• Browse the ANSI PST file from the system and click “Open.”
• Click “Finish” to complete the process. The ANSI PST data has been imported to Unicode PST.

This way you can convert an ANSI PST to a Unicode PST file.

Kernel for PST Repair is an advanced utility designed to repair and convert corrupt or damaged PST files into various formats. Notably, it excels in converting ANSI PST files to Unicode PST files. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to perform this conversion.

• Download the tool and install on your system.
Free Download 100% Secure
• After launching the tool, a welcome window will appear on the screen. Browse the ANSI PST file and click “Next.”

Note: The software is compatible with all versions of Outlook including Outlook 97 and 2000.

• Read the instructions of the tool and click “Finish” to start the repairing process.
• Once the file is repaired, you’ll be able to see all its folders in the left pane of the tool.
• To convert/save this file to Unicode PST, click the “Save” button or select “PST File” from the saving options on the right side of the tool. A new wizard will appear on the screen, select “PST file (MS Outlook)” and click “Next.”
• Now, apply the filters on the file, such as From, To, Subject, Folder Name, Item Type, and Date Range. Click “Next” to proceed.
• In the next step if you want to split the PST file, then select the required splitting option and click “Next.”
• Browse the file saving location and click “Finish.”
• Once the file is saved, you’ll receive a notification displaying “New file has been saved successfully.”

This way you can easily convert an ANSI PST file to Unicode PST with the help of tool.

Conclusion

You can convert ANSI PST to Unicode PST using Outlook 2016/2013/2010 versions, or you can opt for a professional tool specifically designed to facilitate this conversion process.