How To Fix R7B602 - Characteristic &1: External key is time-dependent attribute

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: R7B - BW Metadata (InfoCube, InfoObject, InfoObject catalog)

• Message number: 602

• Message text: Characteristic &1: External key is time-dependent attribute

What causes this issue?

The characteristic &V1& has been selected as the UUID. The
time-dependent attribute &V2& was defined as the external key. This is
not permitted.

System Response

Characteristic &V1& is not consistent.

How to fix this error?

Select a non-time-dependent attribute.

Procedure for System Administrators

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

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message R7B602 - Characteristic &1: External key is time-dependent attribute ?

  The SAP error message R7B602 indicates that there is an issue with a characteristic that is defined as a time-dependent attribute in the context of SAP BW (Business Warehouse) or SAP BW/4HANA. This error typically arises when there is an attempt to use or manipulate a characteristic that has time-dependent attributes in a way that is not compatible with its definition.
  Cause:
  The error occurs when:
  
  You are trying to assign or use a characteristic that is defined as time-dependent, but the operation you are performing does not support time-dependent attributes.
  The external key for the characteristic is not being handled correctly in the context of the time dependency.
  There may be a mismatch in the data model or the way the data is being processed, such as trying to load data without specifying the relevant time period.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the R7B602 error, consider the following steps:
  
  
  Check Characteristic Definition: Verify the definition of the characteristic in the InfoObject. Ensure that it is correctly set up as a time-dependent attribute and that you understand how it should be used.
  
  
  Review Data Loading Process: If you are loading data into the InfoObject, ensure that you are providing the necessary time information. For time-dependent attributes, you typically need to specify the validity period (start and end dates).
  
  
  Adjust Queries or Reports: If the error occurs during query execution, check the query design. Ensure that any filters or selections applied to the characteristic are compatible with its time-dependent nature.
  
  
  Use Time Characteristics: If applicable, make sure to include the relevant time characteristics in your data model or query to ensure that the time-dependent attributes are correctly interpreted.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for specific guidance on handling time-dependent attributes in your version of SAP BW or BW/4HANA.
  
  
  Testing: After making adjustments, test the data load or query execution again to confirm that the error has been resolved.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Time-Dependent Attributes: These are attributes that can change over time, meaning their values are valid only for specific periods. In SAP BW, this is often used for characteristics like customer status, pricing, etc.
  InfoObjects: In SAP BW, InfoObjects are the building blocks of the data model. They can be characteristics (dimensions) or key figures (measures).
  Data Modeling: Understanding how to model data in SAP BW, including the use of time-dependent attributes, is crucial for effective reporting and analysis.
  
  If the issue persists after following these steps, it may be beneficial to consult with an SAP BW expert or reach out to SAP support for further assistance.