How To Fix MC717 - Foreign key &-& refers to a SYST-field


SAP Error Message - Details

  • Message type: E = Error

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

  • Message number: 717

  • Message text: Foreign key &-& refers to a SYST-field

  • Show details Hide details
  • What causes this issue?

    A foreign key used for a join has a foreign key field from the system-
    internal table SY or SYST.
    Since this table is not known in the database, such foreign keys may
    not be used for the joins of database views.

    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?


    Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.


Smart SAP Assistant

  • What is the cause and solution for SAP error message MC717 - Foreign key &-& refers to a SYST-field ?

    The SAP error message MC717 indicates that there is an issue with a foreign key reference in the context of a data entry or configuration process. Specifically, the error message states that a foreign key refers to a system field (SYST-field), which is not allowed in the context of the operation you are trying to perform.

    Cause:

    1. Foreign Key Constraint Violation: The error typically arises when a foreign key in a table is trying to reference a field that is part of the system fields (SYST) in SAP. System fields are reserved for internal SAP use and cannot be referenced in user-defined foreign key relationships.
    2. Incorrect Configuration: This can happen if there is a misconfiguration in the data model or if a custom table or field is incorrectly set up to reference a system field.
    3. Data Entry Error: It may also occur during data entry if the user is trying to input a value that is not valid or does not exist in the referenced table.

    Solution:

    1. Check Foreign Key Configuration: Review the foreign key relationships in the relevant table. Ensure that the foreign key is pointing to a valid user-defined field rather than a system field.
    2. Modify Data Model: If you have custom tables or fields, ensure that they are correctly defined and do not reference system fields. You may need to adjust the data model to remove the invalid reference.
    3. Data Validation: If the error occurs during data entry, validate the data being entered to ensure it complies with the foreign key constraints. Make sure that the values being entered exist in the referenced table.
    4. Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or consult with your SAP Basis or ABAP team to understand the specific context of the error and how to resolve it based on your system's configuration.

    Related Information:

    • SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message. SAP frequently updates its knowledge base with solutions for common problems.
    • Transaction Codes: Use transaction codes like SE11 (Data Dictionary) to check the table definitions and foreign key relationships.
    • Debugging: If you have access to development tools, you can debug the process to see where the error is being triggered and gather more context about the data being processed.

    If the issue persists after following these steps, it may be beneficial to reach out to SAP support or your internal SAP team for further assistance.

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