title: How to view .sdf content from within Visual Studio
body: <p>My question is really similar to <a href="https://stackoverflow.com/questions/2375118/how-to-open-sdf-files">how to open *.sdf files?</a> but my question is specific how I can view it in Visual Studio</p>
  
  <p>I've added a data connection to my server and as such, I can see the option to browse my database as if I were on SSMS, but within the Server Explorer pane of Visual Studio. This is jolly useful.</p>
  
  <p>I'd like to open an <code>.sdf</code> from within the Server Explorer pane of visual studio. I have downloaded the SQLite/SQL Server Compact Toolbox from <a href="https://marketplace.visualstudio.com/items?itemName=ErikEJ.SQLServerCompactSQLiteToolbox" rel="nofollow noreferrer">https://marketplace.visualstudio.com/items?itemName=ErikEJ.SQLServerCompactSQLiteToolbox</a> </p>
  
  <p>When I expand my CE database, I see the list of tables, but only an option for refresh and one for properties. No option to edit the content or change the design. Is this possible?</p>