How To Fix R7B664 - Characteristic &1 used in DSO with data. High card. change not possible

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

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

• Message number: 664

• Message text: Characteristic &1 used in DSO with data. High card. change not possible

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message R7B664 - Characteristic &1 used in DSO with data. High card. change not possible ?

  The SAP error message R7B664 indicates that there is an issue with a characteristic that is being used in a DataStore Object (DSO) that contains data. Specifically, the error message states that a high cardinality characteristic cannot be changed when there is existing data in the DSO. Here’s a breakdown of the cause, potential solutions, and related information:
  Cause:
  
  High Cardinality Characteristic: The characteristic in question has a high cardinality, meaning it has a large number of unique values. This is often the case with characteristics like customer IDs, product IDs, etc.
  Existing Data: The DSO already contains data, and changing the structure of a high cardinality characteristic can lead to inconsistencies or data integrity issues.
  Data Model Constraints: SAP BW has certain constraints regarding the modification of characteristics that are part of a DSO, especially when they are high cardinality and already populated with data.
  
  Solutions:
  
  
  Data Deletion: If feasible, delete the existing data in the DSO. This allows you to change the characteristic without encountering the error. However, this may not be a viable option if the data is needed for reporting or analysis.
  
  Use the transaction code RSA1 to access the Data Warehousing Workbench, navigate to the DSO, and delete the data.
  
  
  
  Create a New DSO: If you need to change the characteristic and cannot delete the data, consider creating a new DSO with the desired structure and characteristics. You can then load data into this new DSO.
  
  This approach allows you to maintain the integrity of your existing data while implementing the necessary changes.
  
  
  
  Modify the Characteristic: If the characteristic is not critical or can be modified without affecting the overall data model, consider changing it to a lower cardinality characteristic or adjusting its properties.
  
  This may involve changing the data type or the way the characteristic is defined.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation: Review SAP documentation or notes related to the specific version of SAP BW you are using. There may be specific guidelines or best practices for handling high cardinality characteristics.
  
  
  Engage SAP Support: If the issue persists or if you are unsure about the best approach, consider reaching out to SAP support for assistance. They can provide guidance based on your specific system configuration and requirements.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  DataStore Object (DSO): A DSO is a type of data storage in SAP BW that allows for the storage of detailed transactional data. It is used for reporting and analysis.
  Cardinality: In the context of data modeling, cardinality refers to the uniqueness of data values contained in a particular attribute (characteristic). High cardinality means many unique values.
  SAP BW Modeling: Understanding the principles of data modeling in SAP BW is crucial for effectively managing DSOs and characteristics.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to address the error message R7B664 and make the necessary changes to your DSO.