How To Fix MC085 - Key fields cannot be substrings

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: MC - Aggregate: views, matchcodes, lock objects

• Message number: 085

• Message text: Key fields cannot be substrings

What causes this issue?

You can define fields of a matchcode ID as component fields by
specifying the offset and length. However, this is not permitted for
key fields of the tables of the matchcode as otherwise a unique
allocation of the matchcode records would not be possible.

System Response

You cannot activate the matchcode ID in this case.

How to fix this error?

Cancel the component field specfication by cancelling the definitions
in the columns <LS>Offs</> and <LS>Lngth</> in the matchcode ID field
maintenance screen.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message MC085 - Key fields cannot be substrings ?

  The SAP error message MC085 ("Key fields cannot be substrings") typically occurs in the context of SAP's Material Management (MM) or Logistics Information System (LIS) when there is an issue with the key fields used in a report or data extraction process. This error indicates that the key fields defined in the selection criteria are not valid because they are being treated as substrings, which is not allowed.
  Cause:
  
  Incorrect Key Field Definition: The key fields in the selection criteria may not be defined correctly. For example, if you are using a range of values or partial values instead of full key values, SAP will throw this error.
  Data Extraction Issues: When extracting data from InfoStructures or other data sources, if the key fields are not specified correctly, it can lead to this error.
  Custom Reports: If you are using a custom report or query that has not been properly configured to handle key fields, it may lead to this error.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Key Field Values: Ensure that the values you are entering for the key fields are complete and not substrings. For example, if the key field is a material number, make sure you are entering the full material number and not just part of it.
  Review Selection Criteria: Go through the selection criteria in your report or query and verify that all key fields are correctly defined and that you are not using any wildcard characters or partial values.
  Adjust Custom Reports: If you are working with a custom report, review the code or configuration to ensure that it correctly handles key fields and does not attempt to use substrings.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for the specific transaction or report you are using to ensure you are following the correct procedures for entering key fields.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: This error can occur in various transaction codes related to reporting and data extraction, such as MC.9 (Inventory Analysis), MC.1 (Material Analysis), or custom Z-reports.
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error or provide additional guidance on handling key fields.
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums to see if other users have encountered similar issues and what solutions they have found.
  
  If the problem persists after checking these areas, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP support team or a technical consultant who can provide more in-depth assistance.