How To Fix C1170 - Characteristic cannot be transformed to a reference characteristic

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: C1 - Characteristics maintenance messages

• Message number: 170

• Message text: Characteristic cannot be transformed to a reference characteristic

What causes this issue?

Characteristic &v1& was created without a table reference. You cannot
create a table reference once you have saved the characteristic.

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?

Delete the table reference.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message C1170 - Characteristic cannot be transformed to a reference characteristic ?

  The SAP error message C1170, which states "Characteristic cannot be transformed to a reference characteristic," typically occurs in the context of SAP's classification system, particularly when dealing with characteristics in the classification of materials or objects.
  Cause:
  This error usually arises due to one of the following reasons:
  
  
  Incompatible Data Types: The characteristic you are trying to convert to a reference characteristic may have data types or attributes that are not compatible with reference characteristics.
  
  
  Existing Dependencies: The characteristic may already be used in a way that prevents it from being transformed. For example, if it is assigned to classes or objects that do not support reference characteristics.
  
  
  Missing Attributes: The characteristic may lack certain attributes that are required for it to be classified as a reference characteristic.
  
  
  System Configuration: There may be system settings or configurations that restrict the transformation of certain characteristics.
  
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the C1170 error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Check Compatibility: Ensure that the characteristic you are trying to convert meets the requirements for a reference characteristic. This includes checking the data type and any other relevant attributes.
  
  
  Review Usage: Investigate where the characteristic is currently being used. If it is assigned to classes or objects, you may need to remove those assignments before attempting the transformation.
  
  
  Modify Attributes: If the characteristic is missing required attributes, you may need to modify it to include those attributes.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for specific requirements and guidelines regarding reference characteristics.
  
  
  System Settings: If necessary, consult with your SAP Basis or system administrator to check if there are any system settings that might be preventing the transformation.
  
  
  Testing: After making the necessary changes, attempt the transformation again to see if the error persists.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Reference Characteristics: These are characteristics that can be used as templates for other characteristics, allowing for more efficient data management and consistency across classifications.
  SAP Classification System: Understanding how the classification system works in SAP can help in troubleshooting issues related to characteristics.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as CL02 (Change Characteristic) and CL03 (Display Characteristic) to manage characteristics effectively.
  
  If the issue persists after following these steps, it may be beneficial to consult with SAP support or your internal SAP team for further assistance.