How To Fix BT016 - Choose a trace activation type

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: BT - Background processing messages

• Message number: 016

• Message text: Choose a trace activation type

What causes this issue?

When the trace is activated, you must specify whether it should remain
active permanently or temporarily.

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?

Specify the trace activation type.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message BT016 - Choose a trace activation type ?

  The SAP error message BT016, which states "Choose a trace activation type," typically occurs when you are trying to activate a trace in the SAP system but have not specified the type of trace you want to activate. This can happen in various contexts, such as when using transaction codes related to performance analysis or debugging.
  Cause:
  The error is caused by the absence of a selected trace activation type. In SAP, there are different types of traces that can be activated, such as:
  
  SQL Trace: For monitoring database calls.
  Kernel Trace: For monitoring the kernel activities.
  RFC Trace: For monitoring Remote Function Calls.
  HTTP Trace: For monitoring HTTP requests.
  
  If you attempt to activate a trace without selecting one of these options, the system will prompt you with the BT016 error.
  Solution:
  To resolve the BT016 error, follow these steps:
  
  
  Navigate to the Trace Activation Screen: Go to the transaction where you are trying to activate the trace (e.g., ST01 for System Trace, ST05 for SQL Trace).
  
  
  Select a Trace Type: Look for the section where you can choose the trace activation type. This is usually a dropdown menu or a set of radio buttons.
  
  
  Choose the Desired Trace: Select the appropriate trace type that you want to activate based on your analysis needs.
  
  
  Activate the Trace: After selecting the trace type, proceed to activate the trace. This usually involves clicking a button labeled "Activate" or similar.
  
  
  Check for Confirmation: Ensure that the system confirms that the trace has been activated successfully.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes for tracing:
  
  ST01: System Trace
  ST05: SQL Trace
  ST12: Combined Trace
  SM50: Process Overview (to monitor running processes)
  
  
  
  Documentation: Refer to SAP Help documentation for detailed information on tracing and performance analysis.
  
  
  Performance Analysis: Tracing is a critical part of performance analysis in SAP. Understanding how to effectively use traces can help in diagnosing performance issues.
  
  
  User Authorizations: Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to activate traces in the SAP system, as some trace functionalities may be restricted based on user roles.
  
  
  By following these steps and understanding the context of the error, you should be able to resolve the BT016 error and successfully activate the desired trace in your SAP system.