How To Fix KE071 - Type and length are incompatible with field &

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: KE -

• Message number: 071

• Message text: Type and length are incompatible with field &

What causes this issue?

Field length for data type &V2& must lie between &V3& and &V4&.

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 data type or the length.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message KE071 - Type and length are incompatible with field & ?

  The SAP error message KE071 ("Type and length are incompatible with field &") typically occurs in the context of controlling (CO) module transactions, particularly when dealing with cost elements, cost centers, or internal orders. This error indicates that there is a mismatch between the data type or length of the value being processed and the expected data type or length of the field in the database or program.
  Causes:
  
  Data Type Mismatch: The value being entered or processed does not match the expected data type (e.g., trying to enter a string where a numeric value is expected).
  Field Length Exceeded: The value exceeds the maximum length defined for the field in the database.
  Incorrect Configuration: There may be an issue with the configuration of the controlling area, cost elements, or other related settings.
  Custom Code Issues: If there are custom programs or enhancements, they may not be handling data types correctly.
  
  Solutions:
  
  Check Data Input: Ensure that the data being entered matches the expected type and length for the field. For example, if a numeric field is expected, ensure that only numbers are being entered.
  Review Field Definitions: Check the definitions of the fields in the relevant tables or structures to ensure that the data being processed conforms to the expected types and lengths.
  Adjust Configuration: If the error is related to configuration settings, review the settings in the controlling area or related master data to ensure they are correctly defined.
  Debug Custom Code: If the error arises from custom code, review the code to ensure that it is correctly handling data types and lengths. You may need to adjust the code to ensure compatibility.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or notes related to the specific transaction or process you are working with for any known issues or additional guidance.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: The error may occur in various transaction codes related to controlling, such as KSB1 (Cost Centers: Actual Line Items), KOB1 (Orders: Actual Line Items), or others.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message. You can search for KE071 in the SAP Support Portal.
  Data Dictionary: Use transaction SE11 to view the data dictionary and check the field definitions for the relevant tables.
  Debugging: If you have access to debugging tools, you can set breakpoints in the relevant programs to trace where the error occurs and inspect the data being processed.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the KE071 error and implement a solution to resolve it.