How To Fix G3546 - Characteristic combination &1 = &2 is already locked by user &3

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: G3 - Messages for SAP Consolidation: Integration

• Message number: 546

• Message text: Characteristic combination &1 = &2 is already locked by user &3

What causes this issue?

The system is trying to set locks per characteristic combination &V1&.
For characteristic value &V2&, a lock was already set by user &V3&.

System Response

Program execution is terminated.

How to fix this error?

The existing locks will be released after termination of the rollup.
Therefore start the rollup again later.

Procedure for System Administrators

The system issues an error message and will not allow you to continue with this transaction until the error is resolved.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message G3546 - Characteristic combination &1 = &2 is already locked by user &3 ?

  The SAP error message G3546 indicates that a specific characteristic combination is currently locked by another user. This typically occurs in the context of SAP's configuration management, particularly in the areas of variant configuration or when working with characteristics in the SAP system.
  Cause:
  The error occurs when:
  
  A user is trying to edit or process a characteristic combination that is already being used or modified by another user.
  The system locks the characteristic combination to prevent data inconsistencies or conflicts during concurrent access.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Identify the Locking User: The error message provides the user ID of the person who currently holds the lock. You can reach out to this user to coordinate the release of the lock.
  
  
  Wait for Release: If the locking user is actively working on the characteristic combination, you may need to wait until they finish their task and the lock is released automatically.
  
  
  Check Lock Entries: You can check the lock entries in the SAP system using transaction code SM12. This will allow you to see which locks are currently active and who is holding them.
  
  
  Release the Lock (if necessary): If the locking user is no longer working on the characteristic combination (e.g., they have logged off or are unavailable), and you have the necessary authorizations, you can manually delete the lock entry in SM12. Be cautious with this approach, as it may lead to data inconsistencies if the other user was indeed working on the data.
  
  
  Review User Permissions: Ensure that users have the appropriate permissions and that the locking mechanism is functioning as intended. Sometimes, issues with user roles or permissions can lead to unexpected locking behavior.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: If the issue persists, refer to SAP documentation or consult with your SAP Basis or technical team for further investigation.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  Transaction Codes: 
  
  SM12: To view and manage lock entries.
  SM21: To check system logs for any related issues.
  SU01: To manage user accounts and roles.
  
  
  
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address specific issues related to locking mechanisms or characteristic combinations.
  
  
  Performance Considerations: Frequent locking issues may indicate a need to review how users are interacting with the system or whether processes can be optimized to reduce contention.
  
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to address the G3546 error and continue your work in the SAP system.