How To Fix 14046 - Extended Memory Layer (EM) error

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: 14 - Task handler messages

• Message number: 046

• Message text: Extended Memory Layer (EM) error

Self-Explanatory Message

Since SAP believes that this specific error message is 'self-explanatory,' no more information has been given.The majority of messages in the SAP system have a message text, however this is frequently insufficient to comprehend or resolve the problem.

To make things easier, more detailed information is frequently added to describe the issue, how to fix it, and the necessary steps or configuration modifications.

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message 14046 - Extended Memory Layer (EM) error ?

  The SAP error message 14046, which indicates an "Extended Memory Layer (EM) error," typically arises when there are issues related to memory allocation in the SAP system. This error can occur due to various reasons, including insufficient memory resources, configuration issues, or problems with the underlying operating system.
  Causes of SAP Error 14046
  
  
  Insufficient Memory: The most common cause is that the SAP system does not have enough extended memory available for the processes it is trying to execute.
  
  
  Configuration Issues: Incorrect settings in the SAP profile parameters related to memory allocation can lead to this error. For example, parameters like em/initial_size_MB, em/size_MB, and abap/heap_area_dia may not be set appropriately.
  
  
  Operating System Limits: The operating system may impose limits on memory usage that can affect the SAP instance. This can include limits on virtual memory or process memory.
  
  
  High Load: A sudden increase in load on the SAP system can lead to memory exhaustion, causing this error.
  
  
  Memory Leaks: If there are memory leaks in custom code or third-party add-ons, they can consume memory over time, leading to this error.
  
  
  Solutions to SAP Error 14046
  
  
  Increase Memory Allocation:
  
  Review and adjust the SAP profile parameters related to memory. Increase the values for em/initial_size_MB and em/size_MB as needed.
  Ensure that the abap/heap_area_dia parameter is set to an appropriate value.
  
  
  
  Monitor Memory Usage:
  
  Use transaction codes like SM04 (User Overview) and ST02 (Tune Summary) to monitor memory usage and identify any bottlenecks.
  Check for any long-running processes that may be consuming excessive memory.
  
  
  
  Check Operating System Settings:
  
  Ensure that the operating system is configured to allow sufficient memory for the SAP instance. This may involve adjusting kernel parameters or system limits.
  
  
  
  Review Custom Code:
  
  Analyze any custom ABAP code or third-party add-ons for potential memory leaks. Use tools like the ABAP Runtime Analysis (transaction SE30) to identify problematic areas.
  
  
  
  Restart the SAP Instance:
  
  In some cases, a simple restart of the SAP instance can free up memory and resolve temporary issues.
  
  
  
  Consult SAP Notes:
  
  Check the SAP Support Portal for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error or provide additional troubleshooting steps.
  
  
  
  Related Information
  
  SAP Memory Management: Understanding how SAP manages memory (including heap memory, extended memory, and paging) can help in diagnosing and resolving memory-related issues.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with transaction codes like SM37 (Job Monitoring), SM21 (System Log), and ST22 (Dump Analysis) to gather more information about the error context.
  SAP Basis Team: Collaborate with your SAP Basis team for deeper analysis and to implement changes in the system configuration.
  
  If the problem persists after trying the above solutions, it may be necessary to engage SAP support for further assistance.