How To Fix EG870 - Starting columns have been repeated

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: EG - IS-U device management

• Message number: 870

• Message text: Starting columns have been repeated

What causes this issue?

Starting columns have been repeated.

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?

INCLUDE ISU_KORR OBJECT DOKU ID TX

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message EG870 - Starting columns have been repeated ?

  The SAP error message EG870, which states "Starting columns have been repeated," typically occurs in the context of data uploads or data processing in SAP, particularly when dealing with flat files or data imports. This error indicates that there are duplicate starting column definitions in the data structure being processed, which can lead to confusion in data interpretation.
  Cause:
  
  Duplicate Column Definitions: The most common cause of this error is that the data structure defined for the import or upload has multiple columns that start at the same position. For example, if two columns are defined to start at the same character position in a flat file, SAP will not know which column to read from.
  Incorrect File Format: The format of the file being uploaded may not match the expected structure defined in SAP, leading to misalignment of columns.
  Configuration Issues: There may be issues in the configuration of the data structure in the Data Dictionary or the specific transaction being used for the upload.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Column Definitions: Review the definitions of the columns in the data structure. Ensure that each column has a unique starting position. Adjust the starting positions as necessary to eliminate duplicates.
  Validate File Format: Ensure that the file being uploaded adheres to the expected format. Check for any discrepancies in the layout of the data.
  Use Data Mapping Tools: If available, use data mapping tools or transaction codes that can help visualize the data structure and identify any overlaps in column definitions.
  Test with Sample Data: Before performing a full upload, test the process with a small sample of data to ensure that the structure is correct and that the error does not occur.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for specific guidelines on the data structure and upload process relevant to your version of SAP.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Depending on the context, you may be using transaction codes like LSMW (Legacy System Migration Workbench), BAPIs, or other data upload tools.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message. SAP frequently updates its knowledge base with solutions to common problems.
  Community Forums: Engage with SAP community forums or user groups where similar issues may have been discussed, and solutions shared.
  
  By addressing the root cause of the error and ensuring that your data structure is correctly defined, you should be able to resolve the EG870 error and successfully complete your data upload or processing task.