How To Fix C1189 - Select an existing data type

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: C1 - Characteristics maintenance messages

• Message number: 189

• Message text: Select an existing data type

What causes this issue?

You entered a new data type and chose the function "Display", "Change",
or "Delete". These functions are not possible for a data type that does
not exist.

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?

Choose an existing data type to display, change, or delete. New data
types must be created before they can be processed.

Procedure for System Administrators

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message C1189 - Select an existing data type ?

  The SAP error message C1189, which states "Select an existing data type," typically occurs in the context of ABAP programming or when working with data dictionary objects in SAP. This error indicates that the system is expecting you to select a predefined data type, but the type you are trying to use does not exist or is not recognized.
  Causes:
  
  Non-existent Data Type: The data type you are trying to use has not been defined in the system or is misspelled.
  Incorrect Context: You may be trying to use a data type in a context where it is not applicable or allowed.
  Transport Issues: If the data type was recently created or modified, it may not have been transported correctly to the system you are working in.
  Authorization Issues: Lack of proper authorizations to access certain data types can also lead to this error.
  
  Solutions:
  
  
  Check Data Type Definition:
  
  Go to the Data Dictionary (transaction SE11) and verify that the data type you are trying to use exists.
  Ensure that the name is spelled correctly and that it is active.
  
  
  
  Use Standard Data Types:
  
  If you are unsure about the data type, consider using standard SAP data types (like CHAR, NUMC, etc.) to avoid this error.
  
  
  
  Check Context:
  
  Ensure that you are using the data type in the correct context (e.g., in a structure, table, or program).
  
  
  
  Transport Check:
  
  If the data type was recently created or modified, check the transport logs to ensure that it has been transported correctly to the target system.
  
  
  
  Authorization Check:
  
  Verify that you have the necessary authorizations to access the data type. You may need to consult with your SAP security team.
  
  
  
  Recreate the Data Type:
  
  If the data type is missing and you have the necessary information, you may need to recreate it in the Data Dictionary.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  Transaction Codes: 
  
  SE11 (Data Dictionary)
  SE80 (Object Navigator)
  SE37 (Function Module)
  
  
  
  Documentation: 
  
  SAP Help Portal and ABAP documentation can provide additional insights into data types and their usage.
  
  
  
  Community Forums: 
  
  SAP Community and other forums can be useful for finding similar issues and solutions shared by other users.
  
  
  
  If the problem persists after trying the above solutions, consider reaching out to your SAP Basis or ABAP development team for further assistance.