How To Fix DT481 - Key field number & is too large; table will not be created on DB &


SAP Error Message - Details

  • Message type: E = Error

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

  • Message number: 481

  • Message text: Key field number & is too large; table will not be created on DB &

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  • Self-Explanatory Message

    Since SAP believes that this specific error message is 'self-explanatory,' no more information has been given.The majority of messages in the SAP system have a message text, however this is frequently insufficient to comprehend or resolve the problem.

    To make things easier, more detailed information is frequently added to describe the issue, how to fix it, and the necessary steps or configuration modifications.

    Unfortunately, there isn't any extra information in this error notice.



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Smart SAP Assistant

  • What is the cause and solution for SAP error message DT481 - Key field number & is too large; table will not be created on DB & ?

    The SAP error message DT481 indicates that there is an issue with the key field number in a database table definition. Specifically, it means that the key field number specified for a table is too large, which prevents the table from being created in the database.

    Cause:

    1. Key Field Limitations: In SAP, there are limitations on the number of key fields that can be defined for a database table. If the number of key fields exceeds the maximum allowed limit, this error will occur.
    2. Data Dictionary Definition: The error may arise from the way the table is defined in the Data Dictionary (SE11). If the key fields are not properly defined or if there are too many key fields, this can lead to the error.
    3. Database Constraints: Different database systems have their own constraints regarding the maximum number of key fields or the size of keys. If the definition exceeds these constraints, the error will be triggered.

    Solution:

    1. Review Key Fields: Check the definition of the table in the Data Dictionary (transaction SE11). Ensure that the number of key fields does not exceed the maximum limit. Typically, the maximum number of key fields is 16 for most databases.
    2. Reduce Key Fields: If you find that there are too many key fields, consider whether all of them are necessary. You may need to reduce the number of key fields by combining some fields or removing less critical ones.
    3. Check Data Types: Ensure that the data types of the key fields are appropriate and do not exceed the limits set by the database.
    4. Database-Specific Settings: If you are using a specific database (like HANA, Oracle, etc.), check the documentation for that database to understand its limitations regarding key fields.
    5. Transport Requests: If the table definition is part of a transport request, ensure that the transport is correctly configured and that there are no inconsistencies in the transport layer.

    Related Information:

    • Transaction SE11: Use this transaction to access the Data Dictionary and review the table definitions.
    • SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or updates related to this error message. SAP Notes can provide additional context or solutions.
    • Database Documentation: Refer to the documentation for the specific database you are using to understand its limitations and best practices for defining tables.

    By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the DT481 error and successfully create the database table.

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