How To Fix MH188 - Database error: program &, client &

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: MH - Maintain Material Master Data (Retail)

• Message number: 188

• Message text: Database error: program &, client &

What causes this issue?

The system tried to convert the <DS:GLOS.material_category>material
category</> (ATTYP) in table MARA using XPRA program &V1&. However, a
database error occurred for client &V2&.

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?

See the following message.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message MH188 - Database error: program &, client & ?

  The SAP error message MH188, which indicates a database error, typically occurs when there is an issue with the database connection or the database itself. The message format usually includes placeholders for the program name and client number, which can help in diagnosing the specific context of the error.
  Causes of MH188 Error
  
  
  Database Connection Issues: The SAP system may be unable to connect to the database due to network issues, incorrect database configuration, or database server downtime.
  
  
  Database Locking: If a database table is locked by another process, it can lead to this error when trying to access or modify data.
  
  
  Insufficient Resources: The database server may be running out of resources (e.g., memory, disk space), which can prevent it from processing requests.
  
  
  Corrupted Database Objects: Corruption in database tables or indexes can lead to errors when the system tries to read or write data.
  
  
  Configuration Issues: Incorrect settings in the SAP system or database configuration can lead to connectivity or operational issues.
  
  
  Solutions
  
  
  Check Database Connection: Verify that the database server is up and running. Check network connectivity between the SAP application server and the database server.
  
  
  Review Logs: Look at the SAP application logs (transaction SM21) and database logs for more detailed error messages that can provide insight into the issue.
  
  
  Database Administration: If you have access, check the database for locks or long-running transactions. You may need to unlock tables or terminate long-running processes.
  
  
  Resource Monitoring: Monitor the database server's resource usage (CPU, memory, disk space) to ensure it is not overloaded. If resources are low, consider optimizing queries or increasing resources.
  
  
  Database Integrity Check: Run integrity checks on the database to identify and repair any corrupted objects. This may involve using database-specific tools or commands.
  
  
  Configuration Review: Ensure that the SAP system and database configurations are correct. This includes checking connection parameters, user permissions, and other relevant settings.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP Notes and documentation related to the specific error message for additional troubleshooting steps and solutions.
  
  
  Related Information
  
  SAP Notes: Search for relevant SAP Notes in the SAP Support Portal that may address the specific error or provide patches and updates.
  Transaction Codes: Use transaction codes like SM21 (System Log), ST22 (Dump Analysis), and DB02 (Database Performance) to gather more information about the error.
  Support: If the issue persists, consider reaching out to SAP Support for assistance, providing them with detailed logs and error messages.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to diagnose and resolve the MH188 database error in your SAP system.