[haus]

To my knowledge (and experience), Activesync always runs on Windows Mobile smartphones. Part of this is so that when you plug the phone into the PC a synchronization can be started automatically. Also Activesync is required for push exchange mail. On other devices, various hacks have been employed to stop activesync from running, but honestly with the specs of the Intrepid I wouldn't worry about it. Anything else you leave running is going to take far more resources, generally speaking.

Just my 2 cents...