How To Fix DB656 - Incorrect sign "&" for selection "&"

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

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

• Message number: 656

• Message text: Incorrect sign "&" for selection "&"

What causes this issue?

Invalid selection criterion entered in <LS>SIGN</> field. The only
permitted values are <LB>I</> (include specified set) and <LB>E</>
(exclude specified set). If you enter nothing, the system interprets
this as <LB>I</>.

System Response

The system cannot correct this automatically.

How to fix this error?

Contact the person responsible for the program.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message DB656 - Incorrect sign "&" for selection "&" ?

  The SAP error message DB656 indicates that there is an issue with the sign used in a selection criterion for a database query. Specifically, it suggests that the sign (e.g., "greater than," "less than," "equal to," etc.) is incorrect or not appropriate for the context of the selection.
  Cause:
  
  Incorrect Sign Usage: The error typically arises when the sign used in the selection criteria does not match the expected sign for the data type or the context of the query.
  Data Type Mismatch: If the selection field is of a certain data type (e.g., numeric, character), using a sign that is not compatible with that data type can trigger this error.
  Logical Errors in Query: Sometimes, the logical structure of the query may lead to an incorrect sign being interpreted.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Selection Criteria: Review the selection criteria in the query or report where the error occurs. Ensure that the signs used are appropriate for the data types involved.
  Correct the Sign: If you find that the sign is indeed incorrect, modify it to the correct one based on the expected logic of the query.
  Data Type Verification: Ensure that the data types of the fields being compared are compatible. If necessary, convert data types to match.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for guidance on the specific selection criteria and their expected signs.
  Test the Query: After making changes, test the query again to ensure that the error is resolved.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message.
  Transaction Codes: If you are using a specific transaction code, ensure that it is functioning correctly and is up to date.
  Debugging: If you have access to debugging tools, you can step through the code to identify where the incorrect sign is being set or interpreted.
  Community Forums: Consider searching or posting in SAP community forums for additional insights from other users who may have encountered the same issue.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the DB656 error in your SAP environment.