How To Fix M7852 - Sequential file & overwritten with test data

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: M7 - Inventory Management and Physical Inventory

• Message number: 852

• Message text: Sequential file & overwritten with test data

What causes this issue?

You selected the <LS>Test data</> indicator to run the report with test
data.

System Response

When running the report, the system will copy the test data from table
T159A or T159I into the file entered in the <LS>Name of file</> field
and will generate a batch input for the test data.
Data in the sequential file is overwritten with the test data.

How to fix this error?

Check whether the specified directory and file are correct.
If they contain productive data, you must enter a different directory
or different file to import the test data.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message M7852 - Sequential file & overwritten with test data ?

  The SAP error message M7852, which states "Sequential file & overwritten with test data," typically occurs in the context of data processing or file handling within SAP systems. This error indicates that a sequential file has been overwritten with test data, which may not be intended and can lead to data integrity issues.
  Cause:
  
  Test Data Overwrite: The primary cause of this error is that a sequential file, which is expected to contain production or valid data, has been replaced or overwritten with test data. This can happen during testing phases or if the wrong file is referenced in a program or process.
  Configuration Issues: Incorrect configuration settings in the system that point to the wrong file paths or file names can lead to this error.
  User Error: Manual intervention or incorrect file handling by users can also result in overwriting important files with test data.
  
  Solution:
  
  Restore the Original File: If the original file has been overwritten, the first step is to restore it from a backup if available. Ensure that you have a proper backup strategy in place to avoid data loss.
  Check File Paths and Names: Review the configuration settings in your SAP system to ensure that the correct file paths and names are being used. Make sure that test data is not being directed to production files.
  Implement Access Controls: Limit access to critical files to prevent unauthorized overwriting. Implement user roles and permissions to control who can modify or overwrite files.
  Testing Environment: Ensure that test data is only used in a designated testing environment and that there is a clear separation between test and production data.
  Audit and Monitoring: Set up monitoring and auditing processes to track changes to critical files. This can help identify when and how files are being overwritten.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any specific patches or updates related to this error message. SAP frequently releases updates that may address known issues.
  Documentation: Review SAP documentation related to file handling and data management to understand best practices and avoid similar issues in the future.
  Support: If the issue persists or if you need further assistance, consider reaching out to SAP support for help in diagnosing and resolving the problem.
  
  By following these steps, you can address the M7852 error and prevent it from occurring in the future.