How To Fix DB637 - Variant & intended only for background processing

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: DB - Messages for logical databases and background processing

• Message number: 637

• Message text: Variant & intended only for background processing

What causes this issue?

You attempted to start a report online using a variant, but this
variant is only intended for background processing.

System Response

You cannot run the report online using the selected variant.

How to fix this error?

Choose another variant. You can obtain the variants intended for
starting from the menu by entering the variant name <LB>*</>.
If it is important to run the report with one specific variant, you
have to run the report variant as a background job.
You can also use the variant attribute to change the attribute so that
you can run it in dialog mode. However, you should take into account
that a variant created for background processing could be terminated in
dialog mode because of a timeout.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message DB637 - Variant & intended only for background processing ?

  The SAP error message DB637 indicates that a particular variant is intended only for background processing. This error typically occurs when a user attempts to execute a report or transaction that is designed to run in the background using a variant that is not suitable for foreground execution.
  Cause:
  The primary cause of the DB637 error is that the variant you are trying to use is specifically configured for background processing. Variants can be set up with specific parameters and settings that are only applicable when the report is executed in the background. If you attempt to run this variant in the foreground, SAP will throw the DB637 error.
  Solution:
  To resolve the DB637 error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Check the Variant Settings:
  
  Go to the transaction or report where you encountered the error.
  Access the variant management (usually by clicking on the "Variants" button or using the transaction code SE38 or SA38).
  Review the settings of the variant you are trying to use. Ensure that it is not marked as "Background Processing Only."
  
  
  
  Create a New Variant:
  
  If the existing variant is indeed set for background processing, you can create a new variant that is suitable for foreground execution.
  When creating the new variant, ensure that you configure it with the necessary parameters for foreground execution.
  
  
  
  Use an Existing Foreground Variant:
  
  If there are other variants available for the same report that are intended for foreground processing, consider using one of those instead.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Review the documentation for the specific report or transaction to understand the intended use of variants and any specific requirements for background versus foreground processing.
  
  
  
  Contact SAP Support:
  
  If you are unsure about the settings or need further assistance, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting SAP Notes for additional guidance.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: You can use transaction codes like SE38 or SA38 to access and manage variants for reports.
  Background Processing: Background processing in SAP is typically used for long-running jobs that do not require user interaction. Variants for background jobs may include specific settings that are not applicable in a foreground context.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or updates related to the specific report or transaction you are working with.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the DB637 error and successfully execute your report or transaction.