How to open PDB files? 4 simple methods of solving such problems
When you encounter a problem with an unknown PDB file and you do not know how to open such file, the first step you should take is to determine the cause of given problem. We will show you how to address most common problems with PDB files and how to solve them in 4 simple steps.
PDB File Extension
- File type Program Database
- File developer N/A
- File category Database Files
-
File popularity rating
-
What is a(n) PDB file?
The Program Database (PDB) file format is an indexed file format developed by Microsoft to store debugging information about a program. It contains a variety of data, including symbolic debugging information, source code, and type information. The PDB also contains the symbols used by the linker to map between the compiled executable and its source code.
The PDB files are used to store information about executable images that have been linked. For example, when a debugger connects to an application, it can find the symbols in the PDB file, which allows the user to set breakpoints and view source code. In addition, PDB files enable source-level debugging for languages such as Visual Basic, C#, and Visual C++.
How to open PDB file?
In some cases problems may occur when trying to open PDB files. Steps listed below can be helpful in addressing such problems.
Step 1 – Verify whether the file is properly associated with selected software
The first thing user should do is to associate application with PDB files. It may happen so that even when an application that supports PDB files is installed on the system it is not properly associated with this file format. This can be easily remedied by associating program with PDB files. In order to associate such files with given application, user must open the file menu (by right-clicking on the file) and choosing "Open with". A list of suggested applications will be displayed at the top part of menu. Next, select an application and confirm your choice by checking "Always use the selected application to open this kind of files" option. Confirm your selection by clicking OK.
In order to open PDB file, focus on steps 1 and 2
In majority of cases following instruction in step 1 and 2 should be enough to open files with PDB extension. Before attempting the next steps, test all the programs listed below.
Step 2 – Install a program that supports PDB files
Should it happen that the section with suggested programs is empty, it is most probable that no program supporting PDB files is installed on the system. Choose a program from the following list and install it:
Programs that support files with PDB extension
Step 3 – Check for other possible causes of errors
- Corrupted storage medium on which the PDB file is stored
- File data corruption or incompleteness (for example, due to incomplete download or copy process). In such case the file must be re-downloaded or properly copied and then opened again.
- Compatibility issues – check whether PDB extension is compatible with user’s operating system
- Administrative policy settings may prevent user from opening given file
Step 4 – Contact an expert
If you are still unable to open PDB file, you should contact an IT expert. You could also try to contact the developer of given software that supports PDB files. Appropriate website addresses can be found by clicking the name of given program in the list above.
