How To Fix DT214 - Table &: Key length > & (restricted functions)

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

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

• Message number: 214

• Message text: Table &: Key length > & (restricted functions)

What causes this issue?

The key length, that is, the sum of the field lengths of all the key
fields of the table, is greater than 120 bytes.

System Response

This is a warning.

How to fix this error?

Note the following restricted fuctionality for this table:
- Table contents cannot be transported by specifying key values, at
most, by specifying generic
key values with a maximum length of 120 bytes.

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

The table cannot be used as the base table of a lock object if the total
of
the fields lengths of all key fields in the table is greater than 150
bytes.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message DT214 - Table &: Key length > & (restricted functions) ?

  The SAP error message DT214 indicates that there is an issue with the key length of a table in the SAP system. Specifically, it means that the key length of the specified table exceeds the allowed limit for certain restricted functions. This can occur in various scenarios, such as when trying to create or modify a table, or when performing operations that involve the table's key.
  Cause:
  
  Key Length Exceeded: The primary cause of this error is that the key length of the specified table exceeds the maximum allowed length for certain operations or functions in SAP. This can happen if the table has been defined with too many key fields or if the key fields themselves are too long.
  Database Limitations: Different database systems have different limitations on key lengths. If the SAP system is running on a database that has stricter limitations, this error may occur.
  Configuration Issues: There may be configuration issues in the data dictionary or the way the table is defined.
  
  Solution:
  
  Review Table Definition: Check the definition of the table in the Data Dictionary (SE11). Look at the key fields and their lengths. If the total key length exceeds the allowed limit, consider reducing the number of key fields or shortening the lengths of the key fields.
  Modify Key Fields: If possible, modify the key fields to ensure that the total key length is within the acceptable limits. This may involve changing the data types or lengths of the fields.
  Use Alternative Keys: If the table is being used in a way that requires a different key structure, consider creating alternative keys or using a different approach to indexing the data.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or notes related to the specific version of SAP you are using to understand the limitations and best practices for key lengths.
  Database-Specific Settings: If you are using a specific database (like HANA, Oracle, etc.), check the database documentation for any specific limitations or configurations that may affect key lengths.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: You can use transaction codes like SE11 (Data Dictionary) to view and modify table definitions.
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error or provide guidance on best practices for table design.
  Performance Considerations: Keep in mind that having excessively long keys can also impact performance, so it's generally a good practice to keep key lengths as short as necessary for uniqueness.
  
  If the issue persists after making adjustments, it may be beneficial to consult with an SAP Basis or ABAP consultant who can provide more tailored assistance based on your specific system configuration and requirements.