How To Fix DT036 - Table type changed from &->& (Data must be deleted)

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: DT - Table activation (incl. indexes)

• Message number: 036

• Message text: Table type changed from &->& (Data must be deleted)

What causes this issue?

A change in the table type makes it necessary to delete a table which
was already created in the database. This table already contains data.
However, you can only delete the table once this data has been deleted.

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?

Delete the data contained in the table. You can do this using the
database utility (SE14).

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message DT036 - Table type changed from &->& (Data must be deleted) ?

  The SAP error message DT036 indicates that there has been a change in the structure of a table type, which requires that the existing data in the table be deleted before the new structure can be applied. This typically occurs when there are changes in the definition of a table type, such as adding or removing fields, changing data types, or modifying the length of fields.
  Cause:
  
  Change in Table Type Definition: The most common cause of this error is that the definition of a table type has been modified in a way that is incompatible with the existing data. This could happen during a transport of changes or when a developer modifies the table type in the ABAP Dictionary.
  Data Consistency Issues: The existing data does not conform to the new structure, leading to inconsistencies.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the DT036 error, you need to delete the existing data in the table that is associated with the changed table type. Here are the steps you can follow:
  
  Identify the Table: Determine which table is associated with the error message. The message will typically indicate the old and new table types.
  Backup Data: If the data is important, consider backing it up before deletion. You can export the data to a file or another table.
  Delete Existing Data: Use a suitable transaction (like SE11 for database tables) or an ABAP program to delete the existing data from the table.
  
  You can use SQL commands like DELETE FROM <table_name> in an ABAP report or directly in the database if you have access.
  
  
  Repopulate Data (if necessary): If you need to restore the data after the structure change, you can repopulate it from the backup you created.
  Test the Changes: After deleting the data, test the application or functionality that was causing the error to ensure that it works correctly with the new table type definition.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transport Requests: If the change was made as part of a transport request, ensure that all related objects are transported correctly.
  Development Guidelines: Follow best practices for modifying table types and ensure that all dependent objects are updated accordingly.
  Documentation: Keep documentation of changes made to table types and their implications for data integrity and application functionality.
  
  If you continue to experience issues after following these steps, consider reaching out to your SAP Basis or ABAP development team for further assistance.