Is there a way to get MySQL to work with Visual Studio 2012 Express?

Question

I have a Windows 7, 64 bit computer.

My Visual Studio is: VS Express for Desktop 2012. I have MySQL Server 5.6.15. I've tried Installer 5.5 and 5.6 http://dev.mysql.com/downloads/installer/

I believe I have .NET 4.5

I have tried MySQL Connectors/Net (6.74, 6.66, 6.57, 6.16.)

But I can't get access to MySQL through VS 2012 Express (or 2013 for that matter). (See below)

This is my Visual Studio.

I've tried all these:

MySQL Data Source not appearing in Visual Studio

How to connect to a MySQL Data Source in Visual Studio

MySQL Connector for Visual Studio 2012 Update 3

MySQL NET Connect 6.7.2 in Visual Studio 2012

mySQL DataSource on Visual Studio 2012

MySQL For Visual Studio 2012/2013

None have worked. Is it my Visual Studio?

With all the trial and error with the Connector/NET it would seem it's perhaps my Visual Studio Express Edition? Do I need 2010? Really hate losing all the features (I typically use 2013, but want to be able to connect to MySQL for a few learning projects).

EDIT: I think it is the Visual Studio edition, specifically, "Express" even though the add-ons I upload say it works for Visual Studio 2008, 2010, and 2012...I think it is only for the full editions.

If you've somehow gotten Express to work with MySQL, I'd love to know you're configuration.

Answer 1

I found this on the MySQL page - I'm posting it as an answer as there's about 6 other posts that seem to have a similar issue. IF someone is able to get Express edition(s) to work with MySQL (if somehow possible) - that would be the best answer.

Otherwise, this may be helpful to others.

http://forums.mysql.com/read.php?38,546265,564533#msg-564533