University Computer Help Desk

Axim X51 gives error "Unable to obtain a server-assigned IP address" when docked

To eliminate this DHCP error, you must edit the Windows Mobile 5 registry on your Dell Axim X51.

Problem

After being docked in its cradle for a short time (1 to 3 minutes), the Dell Axim X51 returns the error, "Unable to obtain a server-assigned IP address. Try again later or enter an IP address in Network settings."

Despite the error, ActiveSync works fine. The PocketPC can access the Internet via wireless or when cradled. The error message does not appear to impede the Axim's functionality.

Solution

To resolve this error, you must edit the registry on your Axim. These instructions are for Windows Mobile 5.

Registry Editor Required

To perform these instructions, you must use a registry editor for Windows Mobile 5. We used PHM Registry Editor. If you prefer another registry editor, you may use it instead.

Illinois State University makes no warranties or claims regarding the PHM Registry Editor (or any registry editor for PocketPC). Use this third-party application at your own risk.

Edit the Windows Mobile 5 Registry

Follow these instructions to edit the Windows Mobile 5 registry on your Axim X51.

Important!
Editing the registry is a potentially dangerous task. Before making changes to the registry, make sure you know what you are doing. If you make a wrong change to your registry, you can prevent your computer or device from functioning. You should always make a backup before making changes to the registry. See 1115: Backing up and restoring registry keys in Windows.

  1. Remove the Axim X51 from the cradle.
  2. Open your registry editor on your PocketPC.
  3. Browse to the following registry key: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINECommRNDISFN1ParmsTcpIp
  4. Change EnableDHCP=1 to EnableDHCP=0
  5. Quit the registry editor.
  6. Dock the Axim x51.

The Axim X51 will no longer return the error described above.


Article Information

  • Article ID: 1122
  • Last Review: Feb 2, 2009
  • Type: Instructions

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