How To Fix DDACT040 - Function field cannot be changed (&: type with length &/&, no key field)

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: DDACT - Messages for Activating Dictionary Objects

• Message number: 040

• Message text: Function field cannot be changed (&: type with length &/&, no key field)

What causes this issue?

You have changed the field TIMESTMP without permission.,,,,

System Response

The table cluster is not activated.

How to fix this error?

The field must not be a key field. It must be of the type CHAR and must
have a length of 14 or 46 characters.
New table clusters are created, as of Release 7.00, with a TIMESTMP
field of length 46. In already existing table clusters, this field has a
length of 14. If the field was created with a length of 46, subsequent
change to 14 is no longer possible.
Define the table in the field TIMESTMP with the allowed properties.

The system issues an error message and will not allow you to continue with this transaction until the error is resolved.

Procedure for System Administrators

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message DDACT040 - Function field cannot be changed (&: type with length &/&, no key field) ?

  The SAP error message DDACT040 indicates that there is an issue with a function field in a data dictionary object, specifically that the field cannot be changed because it is defined as a non-key field with a specific type and length. This error typically arises when you attempt to modify a field in a way that is not allowed by the data dictionary's constraints.
  Cause:
  
  Field Type and Length: The field you are trying to change has a specific data type and length that cannot be altered. This is often the case for fields that are part of a structure or table definition.
  Non-Key Field: The field in question is a non-key field, meaning it does not participate in the primary key of the table or structure. Changes to non-key fields can be restricted based on the context in which they are used.
  Data Dictionary Constraints: The SAP data dictionary has certain rules and constraints that prevent changes to fields that could affect the integrity of the data model.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Field Definition: Review the definition of the field in the data dictionary (SE11 transaction). Ensure that you are aware of its type, length, and whether it is a key field or not.
  Avoid Changing Key Attributes: If you need to change the field's attributes (like type or length), consider creating a new field instead of modifying the existing one. This is especially important if the field is already in use in various database tables or structures.
  Use Transport Requests: If you are making changes in a development environment, ensure that you are using the correct transport requests and that the changes are properly documented.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or consult with your SAP Basis or ABAP team for guidance on how to handle changes to data dictionary objects.
  Testing: After making any changes, ensure thorough testing in a development or quality assurance environment before moving to production.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Use SE11 (Data Dictionary) to view and modify data dictionary objects.
  Data Dictionary Objects: Understand the difference between tables, views, data elements, and domains in SAP.
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that might address specific issues related to this error message.
  Change Management: Follow your organization's change management procedures when making changes to data dictionary objects to avoid unintended consequences.
  
  If you continue to encounter issues, it may be beneficial to reach out to SAP support or consult with an experienced SAP developer for further assistance.