Outlook won't run, inbox repair won't run

[GretaJo]

I've had prior questions and suggestions but no solutions so will try and
recap everything here.
Outlook won't open saying there are problems with the pst file and suggests
I run scanpst.exe. I try and run that, and it won't, saying the pst file is
in use.
Outlook is closed; task manager shows no tasks, no processes, nothing that
can be identified as having anything to do with outlook; nothing.
There is nothing running that syncs to outlook - no mobile, no fax, not even
a printer.
Rebooting did nothing; last good configuration did nothing. Found the pst
file, copied it, replaced it, didn't help.
Any new ideas?

 

[neo]

How about create a new PST file via the mail applet in the control panel.
Set this new PST file as your default and then remove the old one from the
profile. If you still get the error about it being in use at this point, is
the PST file located on a local hard drive or a network drive? If the
later, I have seen network backup solutions hold a file open and you need to
talk to your corporate/network guys to get the lock released.

If the PST file is on your local drive, it is possible that you have another
process that is interfering. For example, it could be your antivirus
solution that is causing the inbox repair tool to fail since real-time
antivirus scanning needs first crack at the file. Maybe temporarily
uninstalling your security software will allow you to repair the PST file.

 

[GretaJo]

I'll try those - I tried to turn mcafee off and had no luck with the pst file
but might not have fully disabled it. It's a local drive - just my home PC -
so I'll also try the new pst file option. Copying, moving, etc. didn't work
but I haven't tried the mail applet yet. Thanks - here's hoping.

 

[GretaJo]

Thank you Neo! This allowed me to get the repair tool running and to find
all three pst files (why 3? don't know) - so I'm back, thanks again!