How To Fix PHIN033 - Technical object must be the top hierarchy node

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: PHIN - Phase In: Messages

• Message number: 033

• Message text: Technical object must be the top hierarchy node

What causes this issue?

You are trying to:
Take over a technical object by specifying it on the selection screen
Hand over a technical object
Get an existing object or template on the <ZK>Functional Location</> tab
page.
You can only do this for objects that are:
Single technical objects (not part of a hierarchy)
At the top of a hierarchy (no level above)

The system issues an error message and will not allow you to continue with this transaction until the error is resolved.

You can only load a technical object that is not the top node of a
hierarchy if:
You start the takeover application using <ZK>Load Template</>
You use Get Template on the <ZK>Functional Location</> tab page (but
only if the functional location number is used as search criteria)

System Response

The system does not allow you to perform the takeover or handover.

How to fix this error?

Uninstall the technical object or choose the top hierarchy node.
If you are trying to get the template on the <ZK>Functional Location</>
tab page using an equipment number or serial number / material number,
use a functional location number for the search. Otherwise you need to
choose the top hierarchy object.

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 PHIN033 - Technical object must be the top hierarchy node ?

  The SAP error message PHIN033, which states "Technical object must be the top hierarchy node," typically occurs in the context of Plant Maintenance (PM) or Project System (PS) modules when you are trying to assign a technical object (like a piece of equipment or a functional location) to a hierarchy that does not conform to the expected structure.
  Cause:
  
  Hierarchy Structure Violation: The error indicates that the technical object you are trying to assign is not at the top level of the hierarchy. In SAP, certain operations require that the object being processed is the highest node in the hierarchy.
  Incorrect Assignment: You may be attempting to assign a technical object that is already part of a different hierarchy or is not structured correctly within the existing hierarchy.
  Data Integrity Issues: There may be inconsistencies in the data or configuration of the hierarchy that prevent the assignment.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Hierarchy Structure: Ensure that the technical object you are trying to assign is indeed the top node of the hierarchy. You can do this by reviewing the hierarchy in the relevant transaction (e.g., IH01 for functional locations or IE01 for equipment).
  Reorganize Hierarchy: If the technical object is not at the top level, you may need to reorganize the hierarchy. This could involve moving the object to the correct position or creating a new top-level node.
  Use Correct Transaction: Make sure you are using the correct transaction for the operation you are trying to perform. Sometimes, using the wrong transaction can lead to such errors.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help files for specific guidelines on hierarchy structures in your version of SAP.
  Check Authorizations: Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to make changes to the hierarchy.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as IH01 (Display Functional Location), IH02 (Change Functional Location), and IE01 (Create Equipment).
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message.
  User Forums: Consider visiting SAP community forums or user groups where similar issues may have been discussed.
  Consult with SAP Support: If the issue persists, it may be beneficial to reach out to SAP support for assistance, especially if it involves complex configurations or customizations.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the PHIN033 error and successfully manage your technical objects within the SAP system.