How To Fix DO853 - Default key is empty (data type & is not character-like)

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: DO - Dictionary: Mass activation of domains and data elements

• Message number: 853

• Message text: Default key is empty (data type & is not character-like)

What causes this issue?

The default key of a table type comprises all the character-like fields
of the table row. It may not be empty.
The default key is empty since the row type (data element or direct
type entry) is not character-like.

System Response

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

How to fix this error?

Choose another <DS:TX.DDDOC_KEYDEF>key</> or a <DS:TX.DDDOC_ROWTYPE>row
type</> with character-like data type.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message DO853 - Default key is empty (data type & is not character-like) ?

  The SAP error message DO853 indicates that a default key is empty for a specific data type that is not character-like. This error typically arises in the context of data processing or configuration where a default value is expected but not provided.
  Cause:
  
  Missing Default Value: The most common cause of this error is that a default value has not been defined for a specific field or parameter in the configuration.
  Incorrect Data Type: The data type specified may not be compatible with the expected character-like format, leading to the error.
  Configuration Issues: There may be issues in the configuration of the relevant module or transaction where the default key is expected.
  Custom Development: If there are custom programs or enhancements, they may not be handling default values correctly.
  
  Solution:
  
  Define Default Values: Check the configuration settings for the relevant module or transaction and ensure that default values are defined for the fields in question.
  Check Data Types: Verify that the data types used in the configuration or custom code are appropriate and compatible with the expected character-like format.
  Review Custom Code: If there are any custom developments, review the code to ensure that it correctly handles default values and data types.
  Transaction Codes: Use transaction codes like SE11 (Data Dictionary) or SE80 (Object Navigator) to check the definitions of the relevant data elements and structures.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or notes related to the specific module or transaction to understand the expected configurations and default values.
  Testing: After making changes, perform testing to ensure that the error is resolved and that the system behaves as expected.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes that may help in troubleshooting, such as SE37 (Function Modules), SE24 (Class Builder), and SE78 (SAP ArchiveLink).
  Data Dictionary: Use SE11 to explore the data dictionary and understand the structure of the data types involved.
  Debugging: If necessary, use the debugging tools in SAP to trace the execution flow and identify where the default key is expected but not provided.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the root cause of the DO853 error and implement a suitable solution.