How To Fix FDT_EXPRESSIONS384 - Invalid element type for external ID &1

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: FDT_EXPRESSIONS - Formula & Derivation Tool: Expressions

• Message number: 384

• Message text: Invalid element type for external ID &1

What causes this issue?

An elementary data object of type number or text is required.

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?

Procedure for System Administrators

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message FDT_EXPRESSIONS384 - Invalid element type for external ID &1 ?

  The SAP error message FDT_EXPRESSIONS384 with the description "Invalid element type for external ID &1" typically occurs in the context of SAP's Flexible Data Import (FDI) or when working with expressions in the context of data transformation or mapping.
  Cause:
  This error generally indicates that there is a mismatch between the expected data type of an element and the actual data type being provided. Specifically, it suggests that the external ID referenced does not correspond to a valid or expected element type in the context of the operation being performed. This can happen due to:
  
  Incorrect Data Mapping: The external ID may be mapped to an incorrect data type in the transformation logic.
  Configuration Issues: The configuration of the data model or the mapping definitions may not align with the expected structure.
  Data Type Mismatch: The data being imported or processed does not match the expected data type for the specified external ID.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Check Mapping Definitions: Review the mapping definitions for the external ID in question. Ensure that the data type defined for the external ID matches the data type of the source data being processed.
  
  
  Validate Data Types: Ensure that the data being imported or processed is of the correct type. For example, if the external ID expects a numeric value, ensure that the incoming data is not a string or another type.
  
  
  Review Configuration: Check the configuration settings in the FDI or the relevant data transformation tool. Ensure that all elements are correctly defined and that there are no discrepancies in the expected structure.
  
  
  Debugging: If possible, enable debugging or logging to get more detailed information about the context in which the error occurs. This can help identify the specific element or mapping that is causing the issue.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help resources related to the specific module or tool you are using. There may be additional guidelines or best practices for handling data types and mappings.
  
  
  Seek Support: If the issue persists, consider reaching out to SAP support or consulting with a technical expert who has experience with the specific module or functionality you are working with.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error or provide additional context.
  Community Forums: Engage with SAP community forums or user groups where similar issues may have been discussed.
  Training Resources: If you are frequently working with data transformations in SAP, consider training resources or courses that cover best practices in data mapping and configuration.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the cause of the FDT_EXPRESSIONS384 error in your SAP environment.