How To Fix DU038 - The specification of decimal places is only permitted with type P

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: DU - Data transfer to SAP-EIS

• Message number: 038

• Message text: The specification of decimal places is only permitted with type P

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message DU038 - The specification of decimal places is only permitted with type P ?

  The SAP error message DU038 indicates that there is an issue with the definition of a field in a data dictionary object (like a table or structure) where the specification of decimal places is being used incorrectly. Specifically, this error occurs when decimal places are defined for a data type that does not support them.
  Cause:
  The error arises when you attempt to specify decimal places for a data type that is not compatible with decimal places. In SAP, only the "Packed" (type P) data type allows for the specification of decimal places. If you try to define decimal places for other data types (like character (C), integer (I), or floating point (F)), you will encounter this error.
  Solution:
  To resolve the DU038 error, you should:
  
  
  Check the Data Type: Review the data type of the field where you are trying to specify decimal places. Ensure that it is of type P (Packed).
  
  
  Change the Data Type: If the field is not of type P and you need to have decimal places, change the data type to type P. You can do this in the Data Dictionary (SE11) by editing the field definition.
  
  
  Remove Decimal Places: If changing the data type is not feasible or if decimal places are not necessary, you can simply remove the decimal places specification from the field definition.
  
  
  Recheck the Structure/Table: After making changes, ensure that the structure or table is activated successfully without any errors.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  Data Types in SAP: Understanding the different data types in SAP ABAP is crucial. The main types include:
  
  C: Character
  N: Numeric text
  D: Date
  T: Time
  I: Integer
  F: Floating point
  P: Packed (for decimal numbers)
  
  
  
  Data Dictionary (SE11): This is the transaction code used to access the Data Dictionary in SAP, where you can create or modify tables, structures, domains, and data elements.
  
  
  Field Definitions: When defining fields in SAP, always ensure that the data type aligns with the intended use, especially when dealing with numeric values that require decimal precision.
  
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the DU038 error and ensure that your data definitions are correctly set up in SAP.