How can I manage SQL CE databases in SQL Server Management Studio?

Question

I created a SDF (SQL CE) database with Visual Studio 2008 (Add / New Item / Local Database).

Is it possible to edit this database with SQL Server Management Studio?

Answer 1

You can create .sdf files with SQL Server 2008 Management Studio.

In the File > Connect Object Explorer dialog, change the Server Type dropdown to SQL Server Compact Edition.

Then in the Database File dropdown choose New Database.... and you're ready to go.

Answer 2

• Management Studio 2005 supports SQL CE 3.0.
• Management Studio 2005 SP2 supports up to SQL CE 3.1.
• Management Studio 2008 supports up to SQL CE 3.5 SP1

I think Management Studio Express 2008 does not support SQL CE databases.

Answer 3

Were you using Management Studio 2005, or 2008? It should work in 2008 if you create a SQL CE 3.5 database ... just not in 2005.