How To Fix DT197 - Field &: Float type cannot be used in the key

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

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

• Message number: 197

• Message text: Field &: Float type cannot 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 DT197 - Field &: Float type cannot be used in the key ?

  The SAP error message DT197 indicates that a field of type "Float" is being used as a key in a database table or structure, which is not allowed. In SAP ABAP, keys must be of certain data types that can be reliably used for indexing and retrieval, and floating-point numbers (Float) are not suitable for this purpose due to their inherent imprecision.
  Cause:
  The error occurs when:
  
  A field defined as a Float type is included in the key of a database table or structure.
  The key fields must be of fixed-length and precise data types, such as CHAR, NUMC, INT, or similar.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you need to change the data type of the field that is being used as a key. Here are the steps you can take:
  
  
  Identify the Field: Determine which field is defined as Float and is being used as a key.
  
  
  Change the Data Type:
  
  If the field is meant to represent a numeric value, consider changing it to a suitable integer type (e.g., INT4) or a fixed-point decimal type (e.g., DEC).
  If the field is meant to represent a string, change it to CHAR or VARCHAR.
  
  
  
  Update the Table/Structure Definition:
  
  Go to the Data Dictionary (SE11) and modify the table or structure definition to replace the Float field with the new data type.
  Ensure that the new data type is appropriate for the intended use of the field.
  
  
  
  Adjust Related Code: After changing the data type, review any ABAP code that interacts with this field to ensure that it handles the new data type correctly.
  
  
  Activate Changes: After making the changes, activate the table or structure and any related objects.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Data Types in SAP: Familiarize yourself with the different data types in SAP ABAP and their appropriate use cases. Key fields should be of types that guarantee uniqueness and stability.
  Database Performance: Using appropriate data types for keys can improve database performance and ensure data integrity.
  Testing: After making changes, thoroughly test the application to ensure that the changes do not introduce any new issues.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the DT197 error and ensure that your database table or structure is correctly defined.