How To Fix 28046 - Reference characteristic expected

28046 - Overview

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: 28 - Configuration

• Message number: 046

• Message text: Reference characteristic expected

What causes this issue?

After the keyword 'MDATA', which indicates a reference to master data
from the object dependency, you can only enter a
<DS:GLOS.reference_characteristic>reference characteristic</>.

System Response

The system issues an error message and will not allow you to continue with this transaction until the error is resolved.

How to fix this error?

Check the expression at the cursor and make the necessary corrections.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message 28046 - Reference characteristic expected ?

  The SAP error message 28046, "Reference characteristic expected," typically occurs in the context of SAP's Advanced Planning and Optimization (APO) or SAP Integrated Business Planning (IBP) when dealing with characteristics and key figures in planning models. This error indicates that the system is expecting a reference characteristic to be defined, but it is either missing or incorrectly configured.
  
  Cause:
  
  Missing Reference Characteristic: The characteristic that is expected as a reference is not defined in the planning model or is not assigned correctly.
  Incorrect Configuration: The configuration of the planning model may not align with the expected structure, leading to the system not recognizing the reference characteristic.
  Data Model Issues: There may be issues with the data model where the reference characteristic is not properly linked to the key figures or other characteristics.
  
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Configuration:
  
  Go to the planning model configuration and ensure that the reference characteristic is defined and correctly assigned.
  Verify that the characteristic is active