How To Fix 37181 - Maximum length is &1 characters


SAP Error Message - Details

  • Message type: E = Error

  • Message class: 37 - Screen Painter

  • Message number: 181

  • Message text: Maximum length is &1 characters

  • Show details Hide details
  • What causes this issue?

    The following limitations exist for the defined length for text fields
    and input/output fields:
    Text fields: 132 characters
    This limitation also applies to the width for frames. Since a column is
    required for each frame border, the actual frame text must not be
    longer than 130 characters.
    Input/output fields: 255 characters
    Input/output fields of the type String (STRG) and Hexstring (XSTR) are
    an exception. Their defined length is not limited and cannot be
    limited.

    System Response

    Longer elements are not accepted by the system.

    Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.


Smart SAP Assistant

  • What is the cause and solution for SAP error message 37181 - Maximum length is &1 characters ?

    The SAP error message 37181, which states "Maximum length is &1 characters," typically occurs when a user attempts to input data that exceeds the defined maximum length for a particular field in the SAP system. This can happen in various contexts, such as when entering data in a transaction, maintaining master data, or uploading data through interfaces.

    Cause:

    The error is caused by trying to enter a value that is longer than the allowed character limit for a specific field. Each field in SAP has a predefined maximum length, and if the input exceeds this limit, the system will trigger this error message.

    Solution:

    To resolve this error, you can take the following steps:

    1. Check Field Length: Identify the field that is causing the error and check its maximum allowed length. This information can usually be found in the field documentation or by checking the data element associated with the field in the ABAP Dictionary (transaction SE11).

    2. Trim Input Data: If the data you are trying to enter exceeds the maximum length, you will need to shorten it. This may involve:

      • Trimming unnecessary characters or spaces.
      • Abbreviating the text.
      • Splitting the data into multiple fields if applicable.
    3. Data Validation: Implement validation checks in your data entry process to ensure that inputs do not exceed the maximum length before submission.

    4. Custom Development: If you frequently encounter this issue and the maximum length is too restrictive for your business needs, consider discussing with your SAP development team about potentially increasing the field length (if feasible) or creating a custom solution.

    5. Consult Documentation: Review SAP documentation or consult with your SAP support team for any specific guidelines related to the transaction or module you are working with.

    Related Information:

    • Field Lengths: Different fields in SAP have different maximum lengths based on their data types (e.g., CHAR, NUMC, etc.). Understanding these can help prevent this error.
    • Transaction Codes: The error can occur in various transaction codes, so knowing where it happens can help in troubleshooting.
    • User Exits and BAdIs: If you are working with custom developments, check if there are any user exits or BAdIs that might be affecting the data input process.

    By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the error and prevent it from occurring in the future.

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