[sql-server] How do you open an SDF file (SQL Server Compact Edition)?

I have an SDF file and I would like to retrieve its schema and query it with some UI. How can I do this? I have no Visual Studio installed on the machine and I would like to install as little software as possible.

You can open SQL Compact 4.0 Databases from Visual Studio 2012 directly, by going to

1. View ->
2. Server Explorer ->
3. Data Connections ->
4. Add Connection...
5. Change... (Data Source:)
6. Microsoft SQL Server Compact 4.0
7. Browse...

and following the instructions there.

If you're okay with them being upgraded to 4.0, you can open older versions of SQL Compact Databases also - handy if you just want to have a look at some tables, etc for stuff like Windows Phone local database development.

(note I'm not sure if this requires a specific SKU of VS2012, if it helps I'm running Premium)

Download and install LINQPad, it works for SQL Server, MySQL, SQLite and also SDF (SQL CE 4.0).

Steps for open SDF Files:

1. Click Add Connection

2. Select Build data context automatically and Default (LINQ to SQL), then Next.

3. Under Provider choose SQL CE 4.0.

4. Under Database with Attach database file selected, choose Browse to select your .sdf file.

5. Click OK.