How To Fix /AIF/EXT_CONTACT601 - Table external contact locked by user &1

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: /AIF/EXT_CONTACT -

• Message number: 601

• Message text: Table external contact locked by user &1

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message /AIF/EXT_CONTACT601 - Table external contact locked by user &1 ?

  The SAP error message /AIF/EXT_CONTACT601 indicates that an external contact is locked by a specific user (denoted by &1). This typically occurs in the context of the Application Interface Framework (AIF) when trying to access or modify an external contact that is currently locked for editing by another user.
  Cause:
  
  Concurrent Access: The most common cause of this error is that another user is currently editing the external contact in the system, which locks the record to prevent conflicting changes.
  Session Timeout: If a user has left a session open for an extended period, the system may still consider the contact locked.
  System Errors: Occasionally, system errors or crashes can leave a contact in a locked state.
  
  Solution:
  
  Wait and Retry: If the contact is locked by another user, the simplest solution is to wait until that user has finished their work and released the lock. You can then retry your operation.
  Identify the Locking User: If you have access to transaction codes like SM12 (for lock entries), you can check which user is holding the lock on the external contact. This can help you determine if you need to contact that user.
  Release the Lock: If the locking user is no longer active (e.g., they have logged out or their session has timed out), you may need to manually release the lock using transaction SM12. However, be cautious with this approach, as it can lead to data inconsistencies if the other user is still working on the contact.
  Check for System Issues: If the lock seems to persist without a valid reason, check for any system issues or errors that may have caused the lock to remain active. You may need to consult with your SAP Basis team for assistance.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as:
  
  SM12: To view and manage lock entries.
  SM21: To check system logs for any related errors.
  SU01: To manage user accounts and check user activity.
  
  
  User Communication: If you are in a collaborative environment, communicate with your team members to ensure that everyone is aware of who is working on which external contacts to avoid conflicts.
  Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or your organization's internal guidelines for handling locked records and managing user sessions.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the /AIF/EXT_CONTACT601 error and continue your work with external contacts in SAP.