How To Fix BA087 - Unknown or not permitted data type &1 prevents automatic conversion

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: BA - Data Archiving

• Message number: 087

• Message text: Unknown or not permitted data type &1 prevents automatic conversion

Self-Explanatory Message

Since SAP believes that this specific error message is 'self-explanatory,' no more information has been given.The majority of messages in the SAP system have a message text, however this is frequently insufficient to comprehend or resolve the problem.

To make things easier, more detailed information is frequently added to describe the issue, how to fix it, and the necessary steps or configuration modifications.

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message BA087 - Unknown or not permitted data type &1 prevents automatic conversion ?

  The SAP error message BA087, which states "Unknown or not permitted data type &1 prevents automatic conversion," typically occurs when there is an issue with data types in a Business Add-In (BAdI) or when trying to perform operations that involve incompatible data types. This error can arise in various contexts, such as during data processing, report generation, or when executing certain transactions.
  Cause:
  
  
  Incompatible Data Types: The error usually indicates that the system encountered a data type that it does not recognize or that is not allowed for the operation being performed. This can happen if:
  
  A field is defined with a data type that is not supported.
  There is an attempt to convert between incompatible data types (e.g., trying to convert a string to a numeric type without proper formatting).
  A custom field or structure is defined incorrectly.
  
  
  
  Custom Development Issues: If there are custom developments (like custom BAdIs or enhancements), they may not be handling data types correctly.
  
  
  Data Dictionary Changes: Changes in the data dictionary (like changes to table structures or field types) that are not reflected in the related programs or function modules can also lead to this error.
  
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Data Types: Review the data types of the fields involved in the operation that triggered the error. Ensure that they are compatible and correctly defined in the data dictionary.
  
  
  Debugging: Use the ABAP debugger to trace the execution of the program or transaction that caused the error. This can help identify where the incompatible data type is being used.
  
  
  Review Custom Code: If the error is occurring in custom code, review the logic to ensure that data types are being handled correctly. Pay special attention to any type conversions or assignments.
  
  
  Data Dictionary Consistency: Ensure that the data dictionary is consistent and that any changes made to data types are reflected in all relevant programs and function modules.
  
  
  SAP Notes: Check the SAP Support Portal for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error or provide guidance on similar issues.
  
  
  Testing: After making changes, thoroughly test the affected functionality to ensure that the error is resolved and that no new issues have been introduced.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Documentation: Refer to the official SAP documentation for information on data types and BAdIs.
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums to see if other users have encountered similar issues and what solutions they found effective.
  Transaction Codes: Use transaction codes like SE11 (Data Dictionary), SE80 (Object Navigator), and SE37 (Function Module) to investigate the definitions and implementations of the relevant objects.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the root cause of the BA087 error and implement a suitable solution.