How To Fix EU400 - Reference to object type & only allowed with "REF TO"

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: EU - Development Environment

• Message number: 400

• Message text: Reference to object type & only allowed with "REF TO"

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message EU400 - Reference to object type & only allowed with "REF TO" ?

  The SAP error message EU400 indicates that there is an issue with the way an object type is being referenced in your ABAP code. Specifically, the error message states that a reference to an object type can only be made using the "REF TO" syntax. This typically occurs when you are trying to use an object type in a context where a reference to that object type is expected.
  Cause:
  The error usually arises in the following scenarios:
  
  Incorrect Declaration: You may have declared an object type variable without using the REF TO syntax. For example, if you are trying to declare a variable of a class type, you need to declare it as a reference.
  Improper Usage: You might be trying to use an object type directly in a context that requires a reference to that object type, such as in method calls or when assigning values.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the EU400 error, you should ensure that you are using the correct syntax for declaring and using object types. Here are some steps to follow:
  
  
  Check Declaration: Ensure that you are declaring your object variable correctly. For example:
  DATA: my_object TYPE REF TO my_class.
  This declares my_object as a reference to an instance of my_class.
  
  
  Instantiate the Object: If you are using a reference, make sure to instantiate the object before using it:
  CREATE OBJECT my_object.
  
  
  Use References in Method Calls: When passing object references to methods, ensure you are passing the reference and not the object itself:
  CALL METHOD my_method
    EXPORTING
      object_ref = my_object.
  
  
  Review Context: Check the context in which you are using the object type. If the context requires a reference, ensure you are using the REF TO syntax.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  ABAP Object-Oriented Programming: Understanding the principles of object-oriented programming in ABAP can help you avoid such errors. Familiarize yourself with concepts like classes, interfaces, and object references.
  SAP Documentation: Refer to the official SAP documentation for more details on object types and references in ABAP.
  Debugging: Use the ABAP debugger to step through your code and identify where the error occurs. This can help you pinpoint the exact line causing the issue.
  
  By following these guidelines, you should be able to resolve the EU400 error and ensure that your ABAP code correctly handles object references.