How To Fix KE646 - User &1 is locking table &2

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: KE -

• Message number: 646

• Message text: User &1 is locking table &2

Self-Explanatory Message

Since SAP believes that this specific error message is 'self-explanatory,' no more information has been given.The majority of messages in the SAP system have a message text, however this is frequently insufficient to comprehend or resolve the problem.

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.

Unfortunately, there isn't any extra information in this error notice.

What else can you do?

First, use our AnswerBot below to get a possible cause and solution (requires a premium subscription).

Also, review the in-depth Common Questions & Answers listed below; you could discover a solution there or be able to connect with others who have faced similar challenges.

You can also try searching the SAP support portal (support.sap.com) but you need a special user ID to access it. It is possible that an SAP support note exists that provides additional details about the mistake or even steps for fixing it.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message KE646 - User &1 is locking table &2 ?

  The SAP error message KE646 indicates that a user is trying to access a table that is currently locked by another user. This typically occurs in the context of controlling or financial transactions where multiple users may be trying to access or modify the same data simultaneously.
  Cause:
  
  Concurrent Access: Another user is currently accessing or modifying the same table, leading to a lock.
  Long-running Transactions: A transaction may be taking longer than expected, holding the lock for an extended period.
  System Configuration: Certain configurations or settings in the SAP system may lead to more frequent locking scenarios.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Identify the Lock:
  
  Use transaction code SM12 to view the list of locks in the system. You can filter by user or table name to find the specific lock.
  Check who is holding the lock and what transaction they are performing.
  
  
  
  Communicate with the User:
  
  If possible, communicate with the user who is holding the lock to understand if they can complete their transaction or release the lock.
  
  
  
  Release the Lock:
  
  If the lock is no longer needed (e.g., the user has left the session), you can manually delete the lock entry in transaction SM12. However, this should be done with caution and typically requires appropriate authorizations.
  
  
  
  Review Transaction Design:
  
  If this issue occurs frequently, consider reviewing the design of the transactions to minimize locking conflicts. This may involve optimizing the processes or changing how data is accessed.
  
  
  
  System Performance:
  
  Monitor system performance to ensure that transactions are completing in a timely manner, reducing the likelihood of locks.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  Transaction Codes:
  
  SM12: Display and manage locks.
  SM21: Check system logs for any related issues.
  ST22: Analyze dumps that may provide insight into system performance issues.
  
  
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to locking behavior in your specific version of SAP.
  
  
  User Training: Ensure that users are trained on how to properly complete transactions to minimize the time locks are held.
  
  
  System Configuration: Review the configuration settings related to locking behavior in your SAP system, as certain settings can influence how locks are managed.
  
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the KE646 error and minimize its occurrence in the future.