How To Fix AD421 - Generic buffering requires a number of key fields to be entered

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: AD - Data Dictionary application messages

• Message number: 421

• Message text: Generic buffering requires a number of key fields to be entered

What causes this issue?

You have selected the generic buffering for the table. This
method of buffering loads all records, which correspond with regard to
the left-hand part of the primary key, into the buffer. The size of
this key area must be defined by specifying a number of key fields.

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?

Enter a key field number. To do this, select pushbutton <LS>Chnge key
fld no.</> and enter a number of key fields into the dialog box that
appears.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message AD421 - Generic buffering requires a number of key fields to be entered ?

  The SAP error message AD421, which states "Generic buffering requires a number of key fields to be entered," typically occurs when you are trying to use generic buffering for a database table or view that requires specific key fields to be defined. This error is often encountered in the context of performance optimization, where generic buffering is used to improve data access times.
  Cause:
  The error arises because:
  
  Missing Key Fields: The table or view you are trying to buffer requires certain key fields to be specified, but they are not provided in your buffering configuration.
  Incorrect Buffering Settings: The buffering settings may not be correctly configured for the specific table or view.
  Generic Buffering Restrictions: SAP has specific rules regarding which tables can use generic buffering and under what conditions.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the AD421 error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Check Table Definition:
  
  Go to the Data Dictionary (transaction SE11) and check the definition of the table or view you are trying to buffer. Identify the key fields that are required for buffering.
  
  
  
  Adjust Buffering Settings:
  
  Navigate to transaction SE11, enter the table name, and click on "Technical Settings."
  Ensure that the "Buffering" option is set correctly. If you are using generic buffering, make sure to specify the required key fields in the "Buffering" section.
  
  
  
  Specify Key Fields:
  
  If the table requires specific key fields for generic buffering, make sure to enter those fields in the buffering configuration. This may involve modifying the buffering settings to include the necessary key fields.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Review SAP documentation or notes related to buffering and the specific table you are working with. There may be additional guidelines or restrictions that apply.
  
  
  
  Test Changes:
  
  After making the necessary adjustments, test the changes to ensure that the error no longer occurs and that the buffering is functioning as expected.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Buffering Types: Understand the different types of buffering available in SAP (e.g., full buffering, generic buffering, single record buffering) and their implications on performance and data consistency.
  Performance Considerations: Be aware that while buffering can improve performance, it may also lead to data consistency issues if not managed properly, especially in environments with high data modification rates.
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may provide additional insights or solutions related to this error message.
  
  If the issue persists after following these steps, consider reaching out to your SAP Basis team or consulting SAP support for further assistance.