How To Fix KY493 - This program does not support Unicode

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: KY - Messages for SAP-EIS: Presentation

• Message number: 493

• Message text: This program does not support Unicode

What causes this issue?

You attempted to call up a program in a Unicode system that is not
Unicode-enabled.

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?

If you have both Unicode-enabled servers in action and servers that do
not support Unicode, then you should log onto a non Unicode system.
This program can be called up there.

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 KY493 - This program does not support Unicode ?

  The SAP error message KY493, which states "This program does not support Unicode," typically occurs when you are trying to run a program or transaction that is not compatible with Unicode in an SAP system that is Unicode-enabled. This can happen in various scenarios, such as when using older custom programs, reports, or transactions that were developed before the introduction of Unicode support in SAP.
  Cause:
  
  Non-Unicode Program: The program or transaction you are trying to execute is a non-Unicode program, which means it was developed in an environment that does not support Unicode character encoding.
  System Configuration: The SAP system is configured to run in Unicode mode, but the program you are trying to execute is not compatible with this mode.
  Legacy Code: Older ABAP code or third-party add-ons that have not been updated to support Unicode.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Program Compatibility: Verify if the program or transaction is indeed non-Unicode. You can do this by checking the program attributes in the ABAP Workbench (SE80) or by consulting with the developer who created the program.
  Update the Program: If you have access to the source code, consider updating the program to make it Unicode-compatible. This may involve changing data types, string handling, and ensuring that all character data is handled correctly.
  Use Alternative Programs: If the program is a standard SAP program, check if there is a Unicode-compatible version or alternative transaction that can be used instead.
  Contact SAP Support: If you are unable to resolve the issue, consider reaching out to SAP support for assistance, especially if the program is critical to your operations.
  Run in Non-Unicode Mode: If absolutely necessary and feasible, you could consider running the SAP system in non-Unicode mode, but this is generally not recommended due to the limitations and potential issues it may cause.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Unicode in SAP: Unicode is a character encoding standard that allows for the representation of text in most of the world's writing systems. SAP systems have been supporting Unicode since version 4.6C.
  ABAP Development: If you are a developer, familiarize yourself with the guidelines for developing Unicode-compatible ABAP programs. SAP provides documentation and tools to help with this.
  Transaction Codes: Use transaction codes like SE38 (ABAP Editor) or SE80 (Object Navigator) to check and modify the program code.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any specific fixes or recommendations related to the KY493 error message.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to address the KY493 error and ensure that your SAP programs are compatible with Unicode.