How To Fix HRPAYUS_MESSAGES476 - Too many dataset files opened.

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: HRPAYUS_MESSAGES - Message class for US Payroll functionalities

• Message number: 476

• Message text: Too many dataset files opened.

Self-Explanatory Message

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To make things easier, more detailed information is frequently added to describe the issue, how to fix it, and the necessary steps or configuration modifications.

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message HRPAYUS_MESSAGES476 - Too many dataset files opened. ?

  The SAP error message HRPAYUS_MESSAGES476 ("Too many dataset files opened") typically occurs in the context of the SAP HR (Human Resources) module, particularly when dealing with payroll processing in the United States. This error indicates that the system has reached the limit of open dataset files, which can happen due to various reasons, such as:
  Causes:
  
  File Descriptor Limit: The operating system has a limit on the number of file descriptors that can be opened by a single process. If your SAP instance exceeds this limit, you will encounter this error.
  Long-running Processes: If a payroll process or report runs for an extended period and opens multiple files without closing them, it can lead to this error.
  Configuration Issues: Incorrect configuration settings in the SAP system or the underlying database can lead to excessive file openings.
  Memory Leaks: If there are memory leaks in the code or in custom programs, it can lead to an accumulation of open files.
  
  Solutions:
  
  
  Increase File Descriptor Limit:
  
  On Unix/Linux systems, you can increase the limit of open files by modifying the ulimit settings. You can check the current limit with the command ulimit -n and increase it by editing the /etc/security/limits.conf file or using the ulimit -n <new_limit> command.
  On Windows, you may need to adjust the registry settings or system configurations to allow more open files.
  
  
  
  Review and Optimize Code:
  
  Check custom ABAP programs or reports for proper handling of file openings and closings. Ensure that all files are closed after their use.
  Optimize payroll processing to minimize the number of files opened simultaneously.
  
  
  
  Monitor Long-running Jobs:
  
  Use transaction codes like SM37 to monitor long-running jobs and identify any that may be causing the issue. If necessary, terminate or optimize these jobs.
  
  
  
  SAP Notes and Support:
  
  Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error. SAP frequently releases updates and patches that can resolve known issues.
  If the problem persists, consider reaching out to SAP Support for assistance.
  
  
  
  System Configuration:
  
  Review the system configuration settings related to file handling and ensure they are set appropriately for your environment.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Use transaction codes like SM21 (System Log), ST22 (Dump Analysis), and SM37 (Job Monitoring) to gather more information about the error and its context.
  SAP Documentation: Refer to the official SAP documentation for HR and payroll processing for best practices and guidelines.
  Community Forums: Engage with SAP community forums or user groups to see if others have encountered and resolved similar issues.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to diagnose and resolve the HRPAYUS_MESSAGES476 error effectively.