How To Fix GB516 - Concatenation not possible: Insufficient space

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: GB - Messages used by the Boolean code generator

• Message number: 516

• Message text: Concatenation not possible: Insufficient space

What causes this issue?

You tried to link a line with the one following by using the
"Concatenate" function. However, a line created in this way would be
too long for the Formula Builder (72 columns maximum).

System Response

The operation was terminated.

How to fix this error?

To concatenate a line with the one following, you must first place the
cursor on a suitable place in the following line and split it by
pressing the "Enter" key to reduce its length.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message GB516 - Concatenation not possible: Insufficient space ?

  The SAP error message GB516, which states "Concatenation not possible: Insufficient space," typically occurs when there is an attempt to concatenate strings or data elements in a way that exceeds the allocated memory or buffer size. This can happen in various contexts, such as during data processing, report generation, or when manipulating strings in ABAP programs.
  Causes:
  
  Buffer Size Limitations: The target variable or buffer where the concatenated result is being stored does not have enough space to hold the resulting string.
  Data Type Mismatch: The data types of the variables being concatenated may not be compatible, leading to issues when trying to combine them.
  Large Data Volume: Attempting to concatenate large amounts of data or long strings can exceed the maximum length allowed for the target variable.
  Incorrect Length Definitions: The length of the target variable may not have been defined correctly, leading to insufficient space for the concatenated result.
  
  Solutions:
  
  
  Increase Buffer Size: Ensure that the target variable has enough space allocated. You can do this by defining the variable with a larger length or using a data type that can accommodate larger strings (e.g., using STRING instead of CHAR).
  DATA: lv_result TYPE string.
  
  
  Check Data Types: Verify that the data types of the variables being concatenated are compatible. If necessary, convert them to a common type before concatenation.
  
  
  Use CONCATENATE Statement: When concatenating strings, use the CONCATENATE statement in ABAP, which allows you to specify multiple strings and a target variable. Ensure the target variable is adequately sized.
  CONCATENATE lv_string1 lv_string2 INTO lv_result.
  
  
  Split Large Data: If you are dealing with very large strings, consider splitting the data into smaller chunks and processing them separately.
  
  
  Debugging: Use debugging tools to check the values and lengths of the variables involved in the concatenation to identify where the issue arises.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  ABAP Data Types: Familiarize yourself with ABAP data types and their limitations. For example, CHAR has a fixed length, while STRING can grow dynamically.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message.
  Performance Considerations: Be mindful of performance when concatenating large strings, as it can impact the efficiency of your program.
  
  By addressing the above points, you should be able to resolve the GB516 error and successfully perform string concatenation in your SAP environment.