How To Fix /AIF/EXT_CONTACT004 - Error during locking process in table /AIF/EXT_CONTACT

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: /AIF/EXT_CONTACT -

• Message number: 004

• Message text: Error during locking process in table /AIF/EXT_CONTACT

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message /AIF/EXT_CONTACT004 - Error during locking process in table /AIF/EXT_CONTACT ?

  The SAP error message /AIF/EXT_CONTACT004 indicates that there was an error during the locking process in the table /AIF/EXT_CONTACT. This error typically occurs in the context of the Application Interface Framework (AIF) when there is an attempt to lock a record in the specified table, but the locking process fails.
  Causes:
  
  Concurrency Issues: The most common cause is that another process is already holding a lock on the record you are trying to access. This can happen if multiple users or processes are trying to update the same record simultaneously.
  Database Locking Mechanism: The underlying database may have a locking mechanism that prevents access to the record until the lock is released.
  Long-Running Transactions: If a transaction takes too long to complete, it can hold locks longer than expected, leading to this error for other processes trying to access the same data.
  Configuration Issues: There may be configuration issues in the AIF or related settings that affect how locks are managed.
  
  Solutions:
  
  Check for Active Locks: Use transaction code SM12 to check for active locks on the table /AIF/EXT_CONTACT. If you find locks that are no longer needed, you can release them.
  Retry the Operation: If the error is due to a temporary lock, simply retrying the operation after a short wait may resolve the issue.
  Review Long-Running Transactions: Identify any long-running transactions that may be holding locks and optimize them if possible.
  Increase Lock Timeout: If applicable, consider increasing the lock timeout settings in your SAP system to allow longer wait times for locks to be released.
  Check for Configuration Issues: Review the AIF configuration to ensure that it is set up correctly and that there are no issues that could lead to locking problems.
  Consult SAP Notes: Check the SAP Support Portal for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error or provide additional troubleshooting steps.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with transaction codes like SM12 (to view and manage locks), SM21 (to check system logs), and ST22 (to analyze dumps) for further investigation.
  SAP Documentation: Review the official SAP documentation for AIF to understand how locking works within the framework and best practices for managing locks.
  Performance Monitoring: Use tools like ST03N to monitor performance and identify any bottlenecks that may be causing locking issues.
  
  If the problem persists after trying the above solutions, it may be necessary to involve your SAP Basis team or consult SAP support for further assistance.