Getting the contents of your mobile phone or Pocket PC organized without using a specialized software is hard, painful, and takes up a lot of time that you don't have.

If you have such a portable device which is based on Windows, then you can use Microsoft ActiveSync to synchronize it with your computer (if it has the Windows operating system installed, of course).

Microsoft ActiveSync is a nice software developed for Windows XP (too bad it's not available for newer versions) that lets you transfer your documents, applications, images, music, videos, and contact information from Outlook into and from your portable device.

The software is very easy to install, and its interface is even easier to use.

Simply connect your portable device via USB, serial cable or infrared connection, and select the elements you wish to synchronize it with (e.g. calendar, contacts).

In addition, ActiveSync can synchronize with Microsoft Exchange Server 2004, so your files can be even updated when you're not at the computer (through wireless connection).

Keep in mind that although Microsoft ActiveSync is a simple and small program, it eats a lot of CPU and memory when it's transferring files.

Sometimes it works perfectly normal, while other times it takes a long while to perform any task (which can become pretty frustrating).

Nevertheless, ActiveSync is a great tool for helping you keep track of appointments, to-do lists, tasks, and others while you're on the go.

So, if you're a fan of Microsoft and own a Windows-based device that you wish to easily update with the information found on your computer, then take a look at Microsoft ActiveSync. It's free!