How To Fix DT696 - Buffering mode is not generic. Delete "number of key fields".

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

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

• Message number: 696

• Message text: Buffering mode is not generic. Delete "number of key fields".

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message DT696 - Buffering mode is not generic. Delete "number of key fields". ?

  The SAP error message DT696, which states "Buffering mode is not generic. Delete 'number of key fields'," typically occurs in the context of database table buffering settings in SAP. This error indicates that there is a mismatch or an incorrect configuration related to the buffering mode of a database table.
  Cause:
  
  
  Buffering Mode Configuration: The error arises when the buffering mode of a table is set to "Generic" but the table has a specific number of key fields defined. In SAP, a table can be buffered in different modes (e.g., "Single Record," "Generic," "Full"). The "Generic" buffering mode is intended for tables that do not have a specific key field configuration.
  
  
  Key Fields Definition: If the table is defined with a specific number of key fields, it cannot be set to "Generic" buffering mode. This is because "Generic" buffering is designed for tables that can be accessed using a range of key values rather than specific keys.
  
  
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you need to adjust the buffering settings of the table in question. Here are the steps to do so:
  
  
  Access the Data Dictionary (SE11):
  
  Go to transaction code SE11 (Data Dictionary).
  Enter the name of the table that is causing the error.
  
  
  
  Check Buffering Settings:
  
  Click on the "Technical Settings" button.
  Look for the "Buffering" section.
  
  
  
  Adjust Buffering Mode:
  
  If the table has a specific number of key fields defined, change the buffering mode from "Generic" to either "Single Record" or "Full" based on your requirements.
  If you want to keep the "Generic" mode, you will need to remove the specific key fields from the table definition, which may not be advisable depending on your data model.
  
  
  
  Save and Activate:
  
  After making the necessary changes, save and activate the table definition.
  
  
  
  Test the Changes:
  
  After making the changes, test the application or transaction that was causing the error to ensure that the issue has been resolved.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  Buffering Modes:
  
  Single Record: Buffers individual records based on their primary key.
  Generic: Buffers records based on a range of key values, suitable for tables that are accessed in bulk.
  Full: Buffers all records of the table.
  
  
  
  Performance Considerations: Properly configuring buffering can significantly improve performance for read operations. However, it is essential to choose the right buffering mode based on how the data is accessed in your application.
  
  
  Documentation: Refer to SAP Help documentation for more details on buffering and performance optimization.
  
  
  If you continue to experience issues after making these changes, consider consulting with your SAP Basis team or a technical consultant for further assistance.