Microsoft Outlook is undeniably the most popular email client for work communication. Its pillars of strength are its file formats—OST and PST. Both these files store mailbox content like email messages, attachment, messages, etc. The PST (Personal Storage Table) files are called personal folder as they store data on the local device. The health of these files (.pst) is vital for the flawless functioning of this email client.

Despite amazing securities and features, this application sometimes gives error. Some users notice that their Outlook data file (.pst) appears empty even though it is carrying large data files. It is the case of “Empty PST File with Large Size.” In majority of cases this error occurs when the user tries to move .pst file from one location to another. Such scenario not only poses risk of data loss but also puts breaks on productivity and consumes loads of working hours.

The main culprit behind this error is corruption in data files (.pst). In some cases, the issue may be caused by inappropriate deletion processes. This post offers proven solutions on how to fix the .pst file problem: empty PST file with large size to make sure your email client functions properly again. In addition to this, we will also unearth a professional PST repair tool.

Understanding the Causes Behind This Error

Nothing is wrong in knowing the root cause of the error. It helps in preventing the occurrence of issue. Certain factors that can amount to “empty PST file with large size” issue are conversed below:

  • A corrupt data file (.pst): It is one of the major causes of this error. If the structure of the data file (.pst) is damaged, it can lead to this issue. Corruption can happen because of any reason, ranging from a power failure and oversized files to malware attack. In such a case, the file retains its original size but loses readable data.
  • Inappropriate removal of data file items: If the user deletes the data file (.pst) items an improper manner, it can cause inconsistencies in the file structure. Such removal of data without a proper sync or maintenance can create a mismatch in the file, leading to this error.
  • Compatibility issues: In case the user (using newer Outlook version) tries to access an Outlook data file (.pst) created in an older version of the email client, this issue arises. While the older version uses the ANSI format, the newer version has the UNICODE format. Such scenario creates compatibility issue, leading to this error.

How to Fix the .pst File Problem: Empty PST File with Large Size

After understanding the issue and unearthing its possible causes, let’s move on to discuss the solutions to this issue. Follow the below guide:

Fix 1: Repair the PST File Using ScanPST

Microsoft has blessed Outlook users with a built-in utility called the Inbox Repair Tool (ScanPST.exe). This utility runs multiple scans to detect the error in header. Then it investigates for inconsistencies in the file structure. The utility then diagnoses and repairs the Outlook data file (.pst). Follow the below steps:

  • Step 1: Find the Scanpst:
    • C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft Office\Office14: Outlook 2010 version
  • Step 2: Exit the Outlook app (shutdown other associated processes as well).
  • Step 3: Click Windows keys + R to browse the Run Dialogue Box.
  • Step 4: Write %programfiles%/Microsoft Office/; then press Enter.
  • Step 5: Go to the Officexx or root/officexx folder and discover the ScanPST.exe program.
scanpst
  • Step 6: Browse the Scanpst.exe.
  • Step 7: Choose the corrupted Outlook data file (.pst). Start the scan.
pstfile
  • Step 8: Analyse the errors and inconsistencies provided by the utility. Click the Repair button to start fixing the file.
  • Step 9: Mark the backup checkbox. It will make a backup file with .bak extension. Then start repairing the file.
  • Step 10: Once the repair procedure is finished, shutdown the Scanpst. After this, restart the Outlook App.
inbox

Fix 2: Recreate a New PST File

Another solution to this error is recreating a fresh Outlook data file (.pst) After this the user needs to transfer the mailbox data into the newly created file using the below steps:

  • Explore the Outlook app.
  • Navigate to the New Items > More Items > Outlook Data File.
  • Enter a File name.
more items
  • To protect the file with a password, tick the Add Optional Password box.
  • Then press OK.
  • Type and verify the password. Click OK again.
  • You can also create the folders in the new file. Just right-click and choose the New Folder option.
newfolder
  • In the final stage, move the mailbox data from the existing file to the newly created Outlook data file (.pst).

Fix 3. Compact the PST File

There is a ‘Compact Now’ feature available for users with Outlook 2013 and later versions. It facilitates users to eradicate space left by deleted items (or whitespace). It will reduce the overall size of the data file (.pst). Follow below steps:

  • Explore the Outlook app.
  • Browse File > Account Settings > Account Settings.
  • After this, press the Data Files tab.
  • Now choose the .pst file that you want to compact.
  • After this, hit on Settings.
  • Browse the Outlook Data File box.
  • Then hit on the “Compact Now” tab. Click OK to proceed.

Fix 4: Use a Third-Party PST Repair Tool

All the above-discussed methods are manual. There is a high possibility that these approaches, including the ScanPST, may fail to address the issue like in case of the complex corruption scenario. Now what to do? Worry not! In such a case, we can utilize any PST repair tool like Stellar Repair for Outlook. The main advantage of using such tools is fast repair speed. While the ScanPST runs multiple scans and consumes enough productive hours, the professional tools take comparatively less time. Also, such tools maintain the integrity of the original file. The user-friendly interface and the capability to recover even an oversized file further make these tools a perfect choice for the PST repair.

Conclusion

The above post shares information on causes and solutions to “Empty PST File with Large Size,” issue. We have also explored some proven methods, ranging from PST file repair using ScanPST and compacting to recreating a new file. If every solution discussed above fails to fix the error, then we must utilize any PST recovery software. Such tools are quick, easy and reliable. Stellar Repair for Outlook is one of such tools that is capable of quickly repairing even an oversized, severely-corrupted .pst file.  This software also offers the choice of previewing of the recovered mailbox data files.