How To Fix E0838 - Error while saving descriptions

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: E0 - SAP EDI messages

• Message number: 838

• Message text: Error while saving descriptions

What causes this issue?

The system tried to save the descriptions for segment type &v1& and the
segment definitions but an error occurred while the data was being
saved.

System Response

The system issues an error message and will not allow you to continue with this transaction until the error is resolved.

How to fix this error?

Please check whether a database error has occurred.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message E0838 - Error while saving descriptions ?

  The SAP error message E0838, which states "Error while saving descriptions," typically occurs when there is an issue with saving text descriptions in various SAP modules, such as Material Management (MM), Sales and Distribution (SD), or others. This error can arise due to several reasons, including data inconsistencies, authorization issues, or system configuration problems.
  Causes of E0838 Error
  
  
  Data Inconsistencies: There may be inconsistencies in the data being saved, such as invalid characters or formats in the description fields.
  
  
  Authorization Issues: The user may not have the necessary authorizations to save changes to the descriptions.
  
  
  Technical Issues: There could be underlying technical issues, such as database locks, system performance problems, or issues with the SAP application server.
  
  
  Configuration Issues: Incorrect configuration settings in the SAP system can lead to errors when saving descriptions.
  
  
  Missing Language Keys: If the description is being saved in a language that is not properly configured or missing in the system, it can lead to this error.
  
  
  Solutions to E0838 Error
  
  
  Check Data Input: Ensure that the text descriptions do not contain any invalid characters or exceed the maximum length allowed. Review the input for any special characters that may not be accepted.
  
  
  Review Authorizations: Verify that the user has the necessary authorizations to perform the action. This can be done by checking the user roles and authorizations in the SAP system.
  
  
  Check for Locks: Use transaction codes like SM12 to check for any locks on the database that might be preventing the save operation. If locks are found, they may need to be released.
  
  
  System Performance: Monitor system performance and check for any ongoing issues that might affect the saving process. You can use transaction codes like ST22 (dump analysis) or SM21 (system log) to identify any related issues.
  
  
  Configuration Review: Review the configuration settings related to the module you are working in. Ensure that all necessary settings are correctly configured.
  
  
  Language Settings: If the error is related to language settings, ensure that the required language keys are properly set up in the system.
  
  
  Consult SAP Notes: Check the SAP Support Portal for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error. There may be patches or updates available that resolve the issue.
  
  
  Contact SAP Support: If the issue persists after trying the above solutions, consider reaching out to SAP Support for further assistance. Provide them with detailed information about the error, including the transaction code, user ID, and any relevant logs.
  
  
  Related Information
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as SE11 (Data Dictionary), SE37 (Function Module), and SE80 (Object Navigator) for debugging purposes.
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums to see if other users have encountered similar issues and what solutions they found effective.
  Documentation: Review SAP documentation related to the specific module you are working with for any additional insights or troubleshooting steps.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the cause of the E0838 error in SAP.