Cannot get my PDA to ceonnect to Vista

[crhorning]

Cannot sync my dell x51v and Vista
Compaq Laptop - Vista Home Premium with Windows Mobile Device Center (6.1)

Dell Axim v51v with Windows Mobile Version 5.0

I cannot get these two to talk. I love the laptop and like Vista so far and I love the axim, I do NOT want to switch to a smart phone I LIKE having the PDA seperate.

Laptop is a new Compaq running Vista. As most of you know Vista will not run Active Sync. It is replaced by the Mobile device center which looks cool IF it would recognize my PDA.

Downloaded Windows Mobile Device Center (version 6.1.6965) which is suppose to be the way to sync. Its also suppose to work with PDA's running Windows Mobile Version 5.0. I am just simplying trying to get it to sync via the cradle (USB).

When I connect via USB the computer makes the audio sound (ding) as if something has been connected, but it doesn't show the axim. I have tried to create a new partnerhsip but it doesn't "see" the pda. I have even tried to do the old "add new hardware" and ............nothing

HELP - and keep in mind I am tech challenged so please be kind with directions, your help is MUCH appreciated.


thanks

CR