Outlook 2003 introduced a new .pst format that is not compatible with earlier versions. You'll need to install that or a later version, create a new .pst file in the Outlook 97-2002 format, then move all the items into that new file.

--
Sue Mosher, Outlook MVP
Author of Configuring Microsoft Outlook 2003
http://www.turtleflock.com/olconfig/index.htm
and Microsoft Outlook Programming - Jumpstart for
Administrators, Power Users, and Developers
http://www.outlookcode.com/jumpstart.aspx

"Mike" wrote in message ...
I tried out Office 12 but didn't like it. I loaded in ofice xp and cannot
access the emails I received when runnning outlook 12. Is there a way to
open the outlook 12 pst file without uninstalling and reinstalling both
programs?