How To Fix CME_API_CHAR001 - Characteristic & & & & already exists


SAP Error Message - Details

  • Message type: E = Error

  • Message class: CME_API_CHAR - Messages of Function Group CME_API_CHAR

  • Message number: 001

  • Message text: Characteristic & & & & already exists

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  • 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.

    Unfortunately, there isn't any extra information in this error notice.



    What else can you do?

    First, use our AnswerBot below to get a possible cause and solution (requires a premium subscription).

    Also, review the in-depth Common Questions & Answers listed below; you could discover a solution there or be able to connect with others who have faced similar challenges.

    You can also try searching the SAP support portal (support.sap.com) but you need a special user ID to access it. It is possible that an SAP support note exists that provides additional details about the mistake or even steps for fixing it.


Smart SAP Assistant

  • What is the cause and solution for SAP error message CME_API_CHAR001 - Characteristic & & & & already exists ?

    The SAP error message CME_API_CHAR001 indicates that a characteristic you are trying to create or modify already exists in the system. This error typically occurs in the context of SAP's classification system, where characteristics are used to define the properties of objects in the system.

    Cause:

    The error is triggered when:

    • You attempt to create a new characteristic with a name that is already in use.
    • You are trying to modify an existing characteristic but inadvertently use a name that conflicts with another existing characteristic.

    Solution:

    To resolve this error, you can take the following steps:

    1. Check Existing Characteristics:

      • Use transaction code CT04 (or CT03 for display) to check if the characteristic you are trying to create already exists.
      • Search for the characteristic by its name to confirm its existence.
    2. Rename or Modify:

      • If the characteristic already exists and you need to create a new one, consider using a different name that does not conflict with existing characteristics.
      • If you intended to modify the existing characteristic, ensure you are using the correct transaction and that you are not trying to create a new one inadvertently.
    3. Review Naming Conventions:

      • Ensure that you are following any naming conventions or guidelines set by your organization to avoid conflicts.
    4. Check for Deletion:

      • If you believe the characteristic should not exist, check if it has been marked for deletion. In some cases, characteristics can be flagged as inactive or deleted but still exist in the system.
    5. Consult Documentation:

      • Review SAP documentation or your organization's internal documentation for any specific guidelines related to characteristics and classification.
    6. Contact Support:

      • If you are unable to resolve the issue, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting with an SAP expert for further assistance.

    Related Information:

    • Transaction Codes:
      • CT04: Create Characteristics
      • CT03: Display Characteristics
      • CT05: Change Characteristics
    • Classification System: Understanding how the classification system works in SAP can help prevent such errors in the future.
    • SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message.

    By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the error and take appropriate action to resolve it.

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