How To Fix DT698 - Buffering type is generic. Specify "number of key fields"

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

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

• Message number: 698

• Message text: Buffering type is generic. Specify "number of key fields"

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message DT698 - Buffering type is generic. Specify "number of key fields" ?

  The SAP error message DT698, which states "Buffering type is generic. Specify 'number of key fields'," typically occurs in the context of data dictionary objects, particularly when defining buffering settings for database tables in the ABAP Dictionary (SE11).
  Cause:
  This error arises when you attempt to set up buffering for a database table without specifying the number of key fields. In SAP, when you define a table for buffering, you need to indicate how many key fields the table has. This is important because it determines how the data is accessed and managed in the buffer.
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, follow these steps:
  
  
  Access the Data Dictionary:
  
  Go to transaction code SE11 (Data Dictionary).
  
  
  
  Open the Table:
  
  Enter the name of the table that is causing the error and click on the "Display" button.
  
  
  
  Go to the Buffering Settings:
  
  Click on the "Technical Settings" button (or "Table" -> "Technical Settings" from the menu).
  
  
  
  Specify Buffering Type:
  
  In the buffering section, you will see options for buffering types (e.g., "Buffering not allowed," "Generic buffering," "Single record buffering," etc.).
  If you select "Generic buffering," you must specify the number of key fields. Enter the correct number of key fields that the table has.
  
  
  
  Save and Activate:
  
  After making the necessary changes, save your settings and activate the table.
  
  
  
  Check for Other Issues:
  
  If the error persists, ensure that there are no other inconsistencies or issues with the table definition.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  Buffering Types:
  
  Generic Buffering: Buffers all records of a table based on a generic key. Requires specifying the number of key fields.
  Single Record Buffering: Buffers individual records based on their primary key.
  No Buffering: The table is not buffered at all.
  
  
  
  Key Fields:
  
  Key fields are the fields that uniquely identify a record in the table. They are essential for the database's indexing and retrieval processes.
  
  
  
  Performance Considerations:
  
  Properly configuring buffering can significantly improve performance for read-heavy applications, as it reduces database access times.
  
  
  
  Documentation:
  
  Refer to SAP Help documentation for more details on buffering and performance optimization.
  
  
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the DT698 error and properly configure the buffering settings for your SAP table.