How To Fix AD186 - Key to table & is too long

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: AD - Data Dictionary application messages

• Message number: 186

• Message text: Key to table & is too long

What causes this issue?

The sum of the field lengths of all key fields of the table exceeds the
allowed value.

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?

Either remove fields from the key or reduce the length of the key
fields.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message AD186 - Key to table & is too long ?

  The SAP error message AD186 ("Key to table & is too long") typically occurs when you are trying to insert or update a record in a database table, and the key length exceeds the maximum allowed length for that table. This can happen in various scenarios, such as when using custom tables or when the data being processed exceeds the defined key length in the database schema.
  Cause:
  
  Key Length Exceeded: The primary cause of this error is that the key (or combination of keys) you are trying to use for a table exceeds the maximum length defined for that table in the database.
  Data Type Mismatch: If the data type of the key fields is not appropriate (e.g., using a CHAR type with a length that exceeds the defined limit), it can lead to this error.
  Concatenated Keys: If the key is a combination of multiple fields, the total length of these fields may exceed the maximum allowed length.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Table Definition: Review the definition of the table in the Data Dictionary (SE11) to understand the maximum key length allowed. Ensure that the key you are trying to use does not exceed this length.
  Modify Key Fields: If possible, consider modifying the key fields to reduce their length. This may involve changing the data type or length of the fields in the table definition.
  Use Alternative Keys: If the current key is too long, consider using a different combination of fields that can serve as a key and fits within the length constraints.
  Data Validation: Implement data validation checks in your application logic to ensure that the keys being generated or used do not exceed the maximum length.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or consult with your SAP Basis or ABAP team for best practices regarding table key definitions and constraints.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: You can use transaction codes like SE11 (Data Dictionary) to view and modify table definitions.
  Database Constraints: Understand the underlying database constraints, as different databases (e.g., Oracle, SQL Server) may have different limits on key lengths.
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this issue or provide additional guidance.
  Performance Considerations: Be aware that changing key definitions can have performance implications, especially if the table is large or heavily used.
  
  If you continue to face issues after trying the above solutions, it may be helpful to engage with your SAP support team or consult SAP community forums for further assistance.