How To Fix FL372 - Reference parameters are not allowed in the update task

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: FL - Function Builder messages

• Message number: 372

• Message text: Reference parameters are not allowed in the update task

What causes this issue?

You have defined a reference parameter for an update function module.
However, only value parameters are allowed in update function modules.

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?

Change the reference parameter to a value parameter.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message FL372 - Reference parameters are not allowed in the update task ?

  The SAP error message FL372, which states "Reference parameters are not allowed in the update task," typically occurs in the context of ABAP programming, particularly when dealing with update function modules. This error indicates that a reference parameter is being used in a context where it is not permitted, specifically within an update task.
  Cause:
  
  
  Reference Parameters in Update Tasks: In ABAP, reference parameters (using the REF TO syntax) cannot be used in update function modules. Update function modules are designed to be executed in a separate update task, and reference parameters cannot be passed in this context due to the way the update task handles data.
  
  
  Incorrect Function Module Definition: If a function module is defined with reference parameters and is intended to be called in an update task, it will trigger this error.
  
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Change Parameter Types: Modify the function module to use value parameters instead of reference parameters. This means changing the parameter definitions from TYPE REF TO to a standard data type or structure.
  Example:
  FUNCTION z_my_update_function.
    " Change from
    "   IMPORTING VALUE(ref_param) TYPE REF TO my_type
    " To
    "   IMPORTING VALUE(param) TYPE my_type
  ENDFUNCTION.
  
  
  Review Function Module Calls: Ensure that any calls to the function module in the update task do not use reference parameters. Instead, pass the data by value.
  
  
  Testing: After making the changes, test the function module to ensure that it behaves as expected and that the error no longer occurs.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  Update Function Modules: These are special types of function modules that are executed in a separate update task. They are used for database updates and must adhere to specific rules regarding parameter types.
  
  
  ABAP Documentation: Refer to the official SAP documentation for more details on function module parameters and the rules governing update function modules.
  
  
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that might provide additional insights or updates regarding this error message.
  
  
  Debugging: If the error persists after making changes, consider using the ABAP debugger to trace the execution and identify where the reference parameter is being incorrectly used.
  
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the FL372 error and ensure that your update function modules are correctly defined and implemented.