How To Fix 5P220 - &: Offset and/or length specification exceeds the field length


SAP Error Message - Details

  • Message type: E = Error

  • Message class: 5P - Error Messages for Schema, Pers.Calc.Rule and Feature Checks

  • Message number: 220

  • Message text: &: Offset and/or length specification exceeds the field length

  • Show details Hide details
  • What causes this issue?

    You have used a decision operation with offset and/or length value(s).
    You have exceeded the length of the field addressed with the decision
    operation.
    Example:
    As an example, let us use the field 'STADT' with a defined length of
    8 characters. The decision operation would be:
    DSTADT(10) or DSTADT+7(5)
    Both operations are incorrect: In the first case, a length of 10
    characters is queried; in the second case, the combination of
    '+7(5)' exceeds the defined length of 8.

    How to fix this error?

    Check the length of the field for the decision operation in the
    Data Dictionary and correct your entry.

    Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.


Smart SAP Assistant

  • What is the cause and solution for SAP error message 5P220 - &: Offset and/or length specification exceeds the field length ?

    The SAP error message 5P220 indicates that there is an issue with the offset and/or length specification in a data operation, where the specified values exceed the defined field length. This error typically occurs in scenarios involving data processing, such as data uploads, data transfers, or when working with custom programs or reports.

    Cause:

    1. Incorrect Data Mapping: The offset or length specified in the data mapping does not align with the actual length of the field in the database or structure.
    2. Data Upload Issues: When uploading data (e.g., using LSMW, BAPIs, or custom programs), the source data may have a length or offset that exceeds the target field's defined length.
    3. Custom Code Errors: If there is custom ABAP code involved, it may have hardcoded values or incorrect calculations for offsets and lengths.
    4. Field Length Changes: If the structure of a database table or data element has changed (e.g., a field was shortened), existing programs or data mappings may no longer be valid.

    Solution:

    1. Check Field Definitions: Verify the field definitions in the database or data structure to ensure that the offset and length specified in your operation do not exceed the defined limits.
    2. Adjust Data Mapping: If you are using a data upload tool, review the mapping configuration to ensure that the lengths and offsets are correctly set according to the target field specifications.
    3. Review Custom Code: If the error arises from custom ABAP code, review the relevant sections of the code to ensure that the calculations for offsets and lengths are correct and that they respect the field definitions.
    4. Test with Sample Data: If possible, test the operation with a smaller dataset or with data that is known to fit within the field limits to isolate the issue.
    5. Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or notes related to the specific transaction or program you are using to see if there are known issues or updates.

    Related Information:

    • SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to the specific transaction or program you are working with.
    • Data Dictionary: Use transaction SE11 to view the data dictionary and check the field lengths and definitions.
    • Debugging: If you have access to the ABAP debugger, you can set breakpoints in the relevant code to inspect the values of offsets and lengths at runtime.
    • Community Forums: Consider searching or posting on SAP community forums for additional insights or similar experiences from other users.

    By following these steps, you should be able to identify the root cause of the error and implement a solution to resolve it.

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