How To Fix E2261 - Data type & is not allowed in the index field (field &)

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: E2 - DE Data Dictionary

• Message number: 261

• Message text: Data type & is not allowed in the index field (field &)

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message E2261 - Data type & is not allowed in the index field (field &) ?

  The SAP error message E2261 indicates that there is an issue with the data type of a field that is being used in an index. Specifically, it states that the data type specified is not allowed for the index field in question. This error typically arises during the creation or modification of database tables or indexes in the ABAP Dictionary (SE11).
  Cause:
  The error occurs when:
  
  You are trying to use a data type that is not supported for indexing. Common unsupported data types include:
  
  Complex data types (like structures or tables)
  Certain floating-point types
  Long text fields (like STRING or CLOB)
  
  
  The field is defined in a way that does not comply with the requirements for index fields.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Check Data Type: Review the data type of the field that is causing the error. Ensure that it is a simple data type that is allowed for indexing. Commonly allowed data types include:
  
  CHAR
  NUMC
  DATS
  TIMS
  INT4
  DEC (with certain limitations)
  
  
  
  Modify the Field: If the field is using an unsupported data type, consider changing it to a supported type. This may involve:
  
  Changing the field definition in the table.
  Creating a new field with a supported data type and using it in the index instead.
  
  
  
  Review Index Definition: If you are modifying an existing index, ensure that all fields included in the index are of valid data types.
  
  
  Recreate Index: If necessary, delete the problematic index and recreate it with the correct field definitions.
  
  
  Check Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation for specific details on which data types are allowed for index fields.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: You can use transaction codes SE11 (Data Dictionary) to view and modify table definitions and SE14 (Database Utility) to manage database objects.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any specific issues or updates related to your version of SAP that might provide additional context or solutions.
  Performance Considerations: When designing indexes, consider the performance implications of the data types and the overall database design.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the E2261 error and successfully create or modify your index in SAP.