How To Fix DB6PM421 - The use of wildcards is limitted to one per entry

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: DB6PM - DB2 UDB for UNIX, Windows: Performance Monitoring

• Message number: 421

• Message text: The use of wildcards is limitted to one per entry

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message DB6PM421 - The use of wildcards is limitted to one per entry ?

  The SAP error message DB6PM421 indicates that there is an issue with the use of wildcards in a database operation, specifically in the context of defining selection criteria for database queries. This error typically arises when a user attempts to use multiple wildcard characters in a single entry, which is not allowed.
  Cause:
  The error occurs because the system restricts the use of wildcards (like * or %) to only one per entry in certain database operations. This limitation is in place to ensure that the database can efficiently process queries and maintain performance.
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you should review the entry that triggered the error and ensure that you are using only one wildcard character per entry. Here are some steps you can take:
  
  
  Review the Query: Check the selection criteria you are using in your query. Look for any entries that contain more than one wildcard character.
  
  
  Modify the Entry: If you find an entry with multiple wildcards, modify it to use only one wildcard. For example:
  
  Instead of using *abc*def*, change it to *abc* or *def*, depending on your needs.
  
  
  
  Test the Query: After making the necessary changes, re-run the query to see if the error persists.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: If you are unsure about the correct usage of wildcards in your specific context, refer to the SAP documentation or help resources related to the database operations you are performing.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  Wildcards in SAP: In SAP, wildcards are often used in selection screens and queries to allow for flexible searching. The most common wildcards are:
  
  * (asterisk) - Represents any number of characters.
  % (percent) - Often used in SQL contexts, similar to the asterisk.
  
  
  
  Performance Considerations: Using wildcards can impact performance, especially if used excessively or incorrectly. It's best to use them judiciously to ensure efficient query execution.
  
  
  SAP Notes and Support: If you continue to experience issues or if the error message is not clear, consider checking SAP Notes or reaching out to SAP support for further assistance.
  
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the DB6PM421 error and successfully execute your database queries.