How To Fix ILM_STOR219 - External handle &1 already exists and cannot be used

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: ILM_STOR -

• Message number: 219

• Message text: External handle &1 already exists and cannot be used

What causes this issue?

A document in the story is identified using a unique, one-dimensional
key called the HANDLE. The HANDLE is usually generated internally as
soon as a document is stored.
However, you have the option of passing on a HANDLE with which the
document is then created.
In the existing case, a document with the key &syst-msgv1& already
exists, so you cannot create it again.

System Response

The procedure is terminated.

How to fix this error?

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

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 ILM_STOR219 - External handle &1 already exists and cannot be used ?

  The SAP error message ILM_STOR219 indicates that there is an issue with the external handle being used in the Information Lifecycle Management (ILM) process. Specifically, the error states that the external handle (identified by &1) already exists and cannot be reused. This typically occurs when there is an attempt to create or use an external handle that has already been created in the system.
  Cause:
  
  Duplicate Handle Creation: The most common cause of this error is that the system is trying to create a new external handle with a name or identifier that already exists in the database.
  Concurrency Issues: If multiple processes are trying to create or access the same external handle simultaneously, it can lead to conflicts.
  Improper Cleanup: If previous operations that should have released or deleted the handle did not complete successfully, the handle may still exist in the system.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Existing Handles: Use transaction codes or reports to check the existing external handles in the system. You can look for the handle mentioned in the error message to see its status.
  Delete or Release Handle: If the handle is no longer needed, you may need to delete or release it. This can often be done through ILM administration transactions or specific reports designed for handle management.
  Modify Process Logic: If your application logic is attempting to create handles without checking for existing ones, consider modifying the logic to check for the existence of a handle before attempting to create a new one.
  Review Logs: Check the application logs or system logs for any additional information that might provide context on why the handle already exists.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or notes related to ILM and external handles for any specific guidelines or best practices.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as ILM administration transactions (e.g., ILM_ADMIN) to manage handles and ILM objects.
  SAP Notes: Search for SAP Notes related to ILM and error ILM_STOR219 for any patches or updates that may address known issues.
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums to see if other users have encountered similar issues and what solutions they have found.
  System Version: Ensure that your SAP system is up to date, as newer versions may have bug fixes or improvements related to ILM functionality.
  
  If the issue persists after trying the above solutions, consider reaching out to SAP support for further assistance.