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You just can't do without some utilities. Regardless of how careful you are in synchronizing the chances of encountering duplicate records is high. Sometimes syncing to several computers causes this problem. Other times, it might be the result of third party software. The cause of this problem is usually elusive, but the solution is clear.

UnDupe is a small program created by Stevens Creek Software that works well for people syncing with Outlook. Once installed to your device, the program reviews your Addresses, Date Book, Memo Pad, and Tasks for exact duplicates. By exact, we mean that the program is comparing each field within a record. If you had two address items for your spouse and one contained a different phone number, the program would consider these distinct items.

Actually, the program is a little smarter than looking for exact duplicates. Two notable exceptions are for "Unfiled" category items and attached notes. If you have two seemingly identical items so that one item has a category of "Unfiled" and the other has an assigned category, UnDupe will delete the "Unfiled" category entry. The same logic is used when one entry has a note and the other does not. UnDupe will remove the item without the note.

If there were one improvement for the program, I would like the option to see which items will be deleted. However, I've never encountered a problem in which something was erroneously deleted. If you're skeptical, the company has a trial version of the software. The trial program will show you how many duplicate entries are on your device, but will not delete them.

Palm OS: Runs on any Palm OS
Cost: $9.95
URL: www.stevenscreek.com/palm/undupe.html

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