How To Fix DT473 - Key exceeds the allowed width & bytes for ABAP runtime (&).

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

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

• Message number: 473

• Message text: Key exceeds the allowed width & bytes for ABAP runtime (&).

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message DT473 - Key exceeds the allowed width & bytes for ABAP runtime (&). ?

  The SAP error message DT473 indicates that a key exceeds the allowed width and bytes for the ABAP runtime. This typically occurs when you are trying to define a key for a database table or an internal table that exceeds the maximum allowed length for keys in ABAP.
  Cause:
  
  Key Length Exceeded: The key you are trying to define for a table or structure exceeds the maximum length allowed by the ABAP runtime. In ABAP, the maximum length for a key field is generally 255 bytes.
  Data Type Issues: Using data types that are not compatible with the key definition can also lead to this error.
  Concatenated Keys: If you are using multiple fields as a composite key, the total length of all key fields combined may exceed the limit.
  
  Solution:
  
  Review Key Definition: Check the definition of the key fields in your database table or internal table. Ensure that the total length of the key does not exceed the maximum allowed length.
  Reduce Key Length: If possible, reduce the length of the key fields. For example, if you are using CHAR fields, consider using shorter lengths or using numeric types if applicable.
  Use Alternative Keys: If the key is too long, consider using alternative keys or a different approach to uniquely identify records.
  Check Data Types: Ensure that the data types used for the key fields are appropriate and do not contribute to excessive length.
  Composite Key Management: If you are using a composite key, evaluate whether all fields are necessary for the key or if some can be removed or combined.
  
  Related Information:
  
  ABAP Data Dictionary: Familiarize yourself with the ABAP Data Dictionary (SE11) to understand how to define tables and keys properly.
  SAP Documentation: Refer to the official SAP documentation for guidelines on defining keys and understanding limitations.
  Performance Considerations: Keep in mind that excessively long keys can also impact performance, so it's best to keep keys as short as possible while still ensuring uniqueness.
  
  If you continue to face issues after trying the above solutions, consider reaching out to your SAP Basis or ABAP development team for further assistance.