What are the WCF.datasource service reference files?

Question

What are the .datasource files that are automatically generated using the "Create Service Reference" in Visual Studio? Comment in file:

This file is automatically generated by Visual Studio.Net. this is used to store configuration information about the data source of a shared object.
Renaming a file extension or editing the contents of this file can make the file unrecognizable in the program.

However, these files seem to be optional, so I wonder what they are used for. I also wonder if it is really safe to delete them, as they often cause path length problems in XP.

http://www.eggheadcafe.com/conversation.aspx?messageid=34104031&threadid=34104026

Can someone point me to the official MS documentation for these files?

Answer 1

As far as I remember, they are just generated, so you can use the data contracts used in the service as object data sources for binding data to user interface controls.

Answer 2

.Datasource files are optional, but can be used in your client application to easily associate a data contract with a ui control. Here is an article explaining how to use them:

http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/ee373840.aspx

Answer 3

I managed to remove them from one of our projects. The project is built perfectly and loaded from the database in order, so I assume it is safe. I would like to hear that someone who knows more about them is weighing this element of the subject.

Answer 4

Expand the reference.svcmap link from visual studio.

Refresh link.

And remove the yellow warning signal sources.