Why is the SQLite provider missing from the Server Explorer Add Connection dialogue?

Question

I am following the article Using SQLite Embedded Database with Entity Framework and Linq-to-SQL, and have tried installing the SQLite provider, first using the System.Data.SQLite NuGet package, and then by installing the provider via the Setups for 32-bit Windows (.NET /Framework 4.0) installer package (for v1.0.79). After both installs, and a system restart, I still see no SQLite Database File provider in the Add Connection dialogue from Server Explorer.

I can proceed by manually creating a connection string and using external tools to create my SQLite database file, but I still would like to know what is wrong why I do not have the advertised design time support for SQLite despite having installed the latest provider. What could be wrong here?

Answer 1

Ensure the data tools for visual studio were installed correctly as per:

http://www.basarat.com/2010/05/sqlite-for-visual-studio-2010.html

There are various fixes listed, making sure there weren't older tools installed first, etc. I'm going to give it a try, but the article may help you out.