How to Convert MDF to Excel Format for Easy Access?
There are some situations when various SQL Server users wish to convert MDF to Excel format. Sometimes this task becomes unavoidable for multiple reasons, so if you are in a situation where this is mandatory to export MDF to Excel Sheet.
As we know, an SQL Server creates an MDF (Master Database File) to store entries in the primary database. MDF file also stores schema information, so this is the main crucial file in Microsoft SQL Server.
Sometimes users prefer to convert MDF to Excel Spreadsheet tables so that they can easily open and view SQL master database using MS Excel program. Even sometimes users want to stop using SQL Server and before quitting they prefer to save its content with tables.
The Intention Behind Exporting MDF to Excel
Easy to Use: Sometimes users prefer to access SQL databases in an easy way that can be possible after converting MDF into Excel program because Excel is an easy-to-use application.
Data Integration: Microsoft Excel allows users to combine data from various sources. Hence, users can easily merge MDF data with different integrated systems and files.
Data Analysis: After exporting MDF to Excel format, open the resultant file with MS Excel and then press the Analyze Data button. Then you can analyze data including pivot tables, charts, and various statistical functions.
Backup and Sharing: Many times, users may have a desire to share crucial fields (columns) and records (rows) with colleagues, and management. Also, users prefer to backup MDF files to handle emergencies.
Auditing Database: When management wants to audit SQL Server MDF database, often they ask to send it in MS Excel supported format. Excel is an easy-to-use application for auditing the MDF database offline.
Presentation Requirements: MS Excel seems the perfect application for better presentation and reporting. Excel’s charting and graphics tools permit to generate visually appealing presentations.
Manual Methods to Convert MDF to Excel Format
SQL Server has an inbuilt feature to export MDF files to Excel files i.e. SQL Server Import Export Wizard. MS Excel program also has a built-in feature to import data from MDF fields and records i.e. Get Data. Upcoming sections describe both manual techniques to convert MDF to Excel sheets using manual approaches.
Method 1: Export MDF to Excel Using SQL Server Import Export Wizard
- Open Object Explorer in SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS).
- Right-click on a database, then choose Tasks >> Export Data.
- Next, choose a specific data source from SQL Server Import Export Wizard.
- Select a desired destination path to store Excel XLSX and click Next.
- Then, enable Copy data from one or more tables or views and click Next.
- Select the database tables that you want to export and tap Next.
- After that, hit the Table Preview option and click the OK button.
- Press the Finish button to start exporting MDF to Excel XLS format.
- See MDF file fields and records exported successfully in Excel.
- Go to the destination location and access the resultant data using Excel.
Method 2: Convert MDF into Excel Using Get Data Option
- Run MS Excel and choose File >> New >> Blank Workbook.
- Open a blank workbook and choose the Data >> Get Data option.
- Then, select From Database >> From SQL Server Database option.
- Enter the SQL Server port number and click the OK button.
- After that, type SQL Server credentials and press Connect.
- Click OK to access this data source using an unencrypted connection.
- Select a database and tables from Navigator to import them in Excel, and click Load.
- Lastly, choose Close & Load to import MDF table in Excel Workbook.
Drawbacks of Using Inbuilt Manual Options
- The manual methods require technical knowledge while exporting MDF to Excel Workbook. So, non-technical users may face the problem.
- SQL Server and its database should be in proper working condition if you prefer to extract it in Excel format.
- Manual methods don’t work with orphan MDF database files so your MDF database should be connected to SQL Server.
Professional Tool to Convert MDF Database to Excel
BitRecover SQL Recovery Software is a highly recommended solution for exporting MDF to Excel format. The tool also offers several advanced features and benefits as mentioned below:
- Permits to repair corrupted MDF files and exports fields (columns) and records (rows) in healthy Excel supported format.
- Allows to recover deleted tables in SQL Server database (MDF) and then you can export deleted tables in Excel Spreadsheet.
- The tool provides quick and normal scanning modes to fix normal and highly corrupted databases for reusing them.
- MDF to Excel converter can convert and recover all items from associated databases like Tables, Functions, Triggers, Rules, Views, etc.
MDF file to Excel converter free download is available which is best for evaluating the software before upgrading. The demo version comes with some limitations but seems best for checking software working procedures.
How to Export MDF File to Excel Format?
- Download, install, and start the MDF to Excel converter on your computer.
- Then, select the Open button to add MDF file in software panel.
- Enable the Quick Scan option to start scanning your master database.
- After that, choose the Export button from the software window.
- Choose CSV (Excel Compatible) format to export database information.
- Lastly, enable With Only Schema or With Schema & Data, and tap Save.
Conclusion
If users just want to view thee files, they can rely on BitRecover MDF File Opener utility. We have described 2 manuals and 1 professional way to convert MDF to Excel format with limitations and benefits. So, if you are also facing the same type of problem then you can follow the steps mentioned above to fulfill your requirements. You can use any manual and professional approaches as experts try and test all.