How To Fix >3656 - Clearing lock already set by &1; only display mode possible

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: >3 - Lock management messages

• Message number: 656

• Message text: Clearing lock already set by &1; only display mode possible

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 >3656 - Clearing lock already set by &1; only display mode possible ?

  The SAP error message 3656 ("Clearing lock already set by &1; only display mode possible") typically occurs in the context of clearing transactions in SAP, particularly when multiple users are trying to perform clearing operations on the same document or set of documents simultaneously.
  Cause:
  The error indicates that a lock has been set on a clearing document by another user (indicated by &1). This lock prevents other users from making changes to the document to ensure data integrity and avoid conflicts. The system allows only display mode for the document that is locked.
  Solution:
  To resolve this issue, you can consider the following steps:
  
  
  Wait and Retry: If the lock is temporary (e.g., another user is processing the document), you may need to wait until the other user completes their transaction. After some time, try to perform the clearing operation again.
  
  
  Check Lock Entries: You can check the lock entries in the system to see who is holding the lock. Use transaction code SM12 to view and manage lock entries. If you find that the lock is held by a user who is no longer active, you may need to contact your SAP Basis team to release the lock.
  
  
  Communicate with Users: If you are in a multi-user environment, communicate with your colleagues to ensure that no one else is working on the same clearing document at the same time.
  
  
  Use Display Mode: If you need to view the document while it is locked, you can proceed in display mode to review the information without making changes.
  
  
  Check for Background Jobs: Sometimes, background jobs may also hold locks. Check if there are any background processes that might be affecting the document.
  
  
  System Configuration: If this issue occurs frequently, it may be worth reviewing the system configuration and user access to ensure that locking mechanisms are functioning as intended.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as:
  
  SM12: To view and manage lock entries.
  SM21: To check system logs for any related issues.
  SE11: To check the data dictionary for the relevant tables involved in the clearing process.
  
  
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message. You can search the SAP Support Portal for specific notes that may address this error.
  
  
  User Training: Ensure that users are trained on how to handle clearing transactions properly to minimize the chances of encountering locking issues.
  
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to address the error message and continue with your clearing operations in SAP.