How To Fix DT474 - Number of key fields exceeds the maximum value for ABAP runtime (&).

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

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

• Message number: 474

• Message text: Number of key fields exceeds the maximum value for ABAP runtime (&).

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message DT474 - Number of key fields exceeds the maximum value for ABAP runtime (&). ?

  The SAP error message DT474 indicates that the number of key fields defined for a particular data structure or table exceeds the maximum limit allowed by the ABAP runtime environment. This typically occurs when you are trying to define a table or structure with too many key fields, which can lead to performance issues and inefficiencies in data handling.
  Cause:
  
  Exceeding Key Field Limit: The maximum number of key fields allowed in a database table or structure is limited (usually to 16 key fields). If you attempt to define more than this limit, you will encounter the DT474 error.
  Incorrect Data Model Design: Sometimes, the data model may be incorrectly designed, leading to an excessive number of key fields being defined for a table or structure.
  Copying or Modifying Existing Structures: If you are copying or modifying existing structures or tables, you might inadvertently add more key fields than allowed.
  
  Solution:
  
  Review Key Fields: Check the definition of the table or structure and review the key fields. Determine if all the key fields are necessary for your use case.
  Reduce Key Fields: If possible, reduce the number of key fields to 16 or fewer. This may involve re-evaluating the data model and possibly normalizing the data structure.
  Use Composite Keys: If you have multiple fields that are used together as a key, consider using a composite key approach where you combine fields into a single key field if applicable.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or guidelines regarding the maximum number of key fields and best practices for data modeling.
  Testing: After making changes, test the data structure to ensure that it meets the functional requirements without exceeding the key field limit.
  
  Related Information:
  
  ABAP Data Dictionary: Familiarize yourself with the ABAP Data Dictionary, which provides guidelines on defining tables, structures, and their key fields.
  Performance Considerations: Understand that having too many key fields can lead to performance degradation in database operations, so it's essential to keep the number of key fields to a minimum while still meeting business requirements.
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may provide additional insights or solutions related to this error message.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the DT474 error and ensure that your data structures are designed efficiently within the constraints of the ABAP runtime environment.