SDF File Extension

What is SDF file?

SDF extension (Standard Database Format) is used for database files. SDF files store data is in structured manner, and the values are saved in fixed-lenght fields.

Easy data exchange

SDF files are typically used for exchanging data between various database software. Many data analytics tools support SDF format to facilitate data importing and exporting. SDF files allow users that work with different software to share information in their databases.

Programs which support SDF file extension

Below is a table that list programs that support SDF files. Files with SDF suffix can be copied to any mobile device or system platform, but it may not be possible to open them properly on target system.

Updated: 09/09/2023

How to open file with SDF extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening SDF files on given system. On the bright side, the most encountered issues pertaining to Standard Data Format files aren’t complex. In most cases they can be addressed swiftly and effectively without assistance from a specialist. The following is a list of guidelines that will help you identify and solve file-related problems.

Step 1. Get the Pervasive PSQL

The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports SDF files installed on the system. This issue can be addressed by downloading and installing Pervasive PSQL or different compatible program, such as dBASE, Full Convert Enterprise, Microsoft SQL Server. On the top of the page a list that contains all programs grouped based on operating systems supported can be found. The safest method of downloading Pervasive PSQL installed is by going to developer’s website () and downloading the software using provided links.

Step 2. Check the version of Pervasive PSQL and update if needed

You still cannot access SDF files although Pervasive PSQL is installed on your system? Make sure that the software is up to date. Software developers may implement support for more modern file formats in updated versions of their products. The reason that Pervasive PSQL cannot handle files with SDF may be that the software is outdated. The latest version of Pervasive PSQL should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Set the default application to open SDF files to Pervasive PSQL

If the issue has not been solved in the previous step, you should associate SDF files with latest version of Pervasive PSQL you have installed on your device. The next step should pose no problems. The procedure is straightforward and largely system-independent

Selecting the first-choice application in Windows

• Choose the Open with entry from the file menu accessed by right-mouse clicking on the SDF file
• Click Choose another app and then select More apps option
• The last step is to select Look for another app on this PC option supply the directory path to the folder where Pervasive PSQL is installed. Now all that is left is to confirm your choice by selecting Always use this app to open SDF files and clicking OK.

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

• From the drop-down menu, accessed by clicking the file with SDF extension, select Information
• Find the Open with option – click the title if its hidden
• From the list choose the appropriate program and confirm by clicking Change for all....
• A message window should appear informing that This change will be applied to all files with SDF extension. By clicking Continue you confirm your selection.

Step 4. Verify that the SDF is not faulty

If you followed the instructions form the previous steps yet the issue is still not solved, you should verify the SDF file in question. Problems with opening the file may arise due to various reasons.

1. Verify that the SDF in question is not infected with a computer virus

If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the SDF file hinders attempts to open it. It is advised to scan the system for viruses and malware as soon as possible or use an online antivirus scanner. SDF file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

2. Verify that the SDF file’s structure is intact

If the SDF file was sent to you by someone else, ask this person to resend the file to you. The file might have been copied erroneously and the data lost integrity, which precludes from accessing the file. It could happen the the download process of file with SDF extension was interrupted and the file data is defective. Download the file again from the same source.

3. Ensure that you have appropriate access rights

Some files require elevated access rights to open them. Log out of your current account and log in to an account with sufficient access privileges. Then open the Standard Data Format file.

4. Make sure that the system has sufficient resources to run Pervasive PSQL

If the system is under havy load, it may not be able to handle the program that you use to open files with SDF extension. In this case close the other applications.

5. Ensure that you have the latest drivers and system updates and patches installed

Latest versions of programs and drivers may help you solve problems with Standard Data Format files and ensure security of your device and operating system. It is possible that one of the available system or driver updates may solve the problems with SDF files affecting older versions of given software.

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