How To Fix DDACT017 - Only character-like types can be used in the key

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: DDACT - Messages for Activating Dictionary Objects

• Message number: 017

• Message text: Only character-like types can be used in the key

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message DDACT017 - Only character-like types can be used in the key ?

  The SAP error message DDACT017 indicates that there is an issue with the data types being used in a key field within a Data Dictionary object, such as a table or a view. Specifically, this error occurs when a non-character-like data type (e.g., numeric or date types) is used as part of a key definition, which is not allowed in SAP.
  Cause:
  The primary cause of this error is that the key field(s) defined in a database table or structure must be of character-like types (e.g., CHAR, VARCHAR, STRING). If you attempt to use a numeric type (e.g., INT, DEC) or a date type (e.g., DATS) as part of the key, the system will raise this error.
  Solution:
  To resolve the DDACT017 error, you should:
  
  
  Check the Key Fields: Review the definition of the table or structure where the error is occurring. Identify the fields that are defined as keys.
  
  
  Change Data Types: If any of the key fields are defined with non-character-like data types, you will need to change them to a character-like type. For example:
  
  Change INT to CHAR or VARCHAR.
  Change DATS to CHAR or VARCHAR.
  
  
  
  Adjust the Application Logic: If changing the data type is not feasible due to application logic or data integrity requirements, consider redesigning the data model or the way keys are handled in your application.
  
  
  Re-activate the Object: After making the necessary changes, re-activate the table or structure to ensure that the changes take effect.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Data Dictionary (DDIC): The Data Dictionary in SAP is a central repository that defines the structure of the database objects. Understanding how to define keys and data types is crucial for database design in SAP.
  Key Fields: Key fields are used to uniquely identify records in a database table. They must be defined correctly to ensure data integrity and efficient data retrieval.
  SAP Documentation: Refer to the official SAP documentation for more details on data types and key definitions in the Data Dictionary.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the DDACT017 error and ensure that your key fields are defined correctly.