I found a workaround here:
http://www.computing.net/answers/pda/activesync-45-workaround/2173.html- Attach device
- Let ActiveSync start up and attempt to recognize; it wil throw the error
- Task Manager; cancel RapiMgr.exe
- Manually restart RapiMgr.exe via the Run menu
- Reconnect the device.
- Active will throw another error "Critical Communications services have failed to start."
- NONETHELESS, go ahead and explore the device folders anyway. You WILL be connected and can start to transfer files.