How To Fix R9164 - Maximum of &1 drilldown characteristics allowed in rows and columns

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: R9 - Business Explorer

• Message number: 164

• Message text: Maximum of &1 drilldown characteristics allowed in rows and columns

What causes this issue?

A maximum of &V1& characteristics are allowed in the drilldown in the
OLAP processor.
Each structure counts as a drilldown characteristic here. For this
reason, the number of characteristics in the rows + the number of
characteristics in the columns + the number of structures in the query
must <= &V1&.

System Response

The query cannot be executed.

How to fix this error?

Remove drilldown characteristics from the query. You also have the
option of moving these characteristics into "Free Characteristics".
This restriction not only applies to the Query Designer, but also to
the execution time of the query.

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 R9164 - Maximum of &1 drilldown characteristics allowed in rows and columns ?

  The SAP error message R9164, which states "Maximum of &1 drilldown characteristics allowed in rows and columns," typically occurs in the context of SAP BW (Business Warehouse) or SAP BI (Business Intelligence) when you are trying to create a report or query that exceeds the allowed number of characteristics in the rows and columns of a query.
  Cause:
  The error is triggered when the number of drilldown characteristics (dimensions) you are trying to use in your query exceeds the maximum limit set by the system. This limit is in place to ensure performance and usability, as having too many characteristics can lead to complex queries that are difficult to analyze and can slow down processing times.
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Reduce the Number of Characteristics: Review the characteristics you are using in your query. Try to limit the number of dimensions in the rows and columns to stay within the allowed limit. You can do this by:
  
  Removing less critical characteristics.
  Combining similar characteristics if applicable.
  
  
  
  Use Hierarchies: If applicable, consider using hierarchies to consolidate multiple characteristics into a single one. This can help reduce the number of dimensions while still providing the necessary detail.
  
  
  Create Separate Queries: If you need to analyze data with many characteristics, consider creating multiple queries that focus on different aspects of the data rather than trying to include everything in one query.
  
  
  Check System Settings: Consult with your SAP BW/BI administrator to check if the maximum limit can be adjusted in the system settings. However, this is generally not recommended as it can impact performance.
  
  
  Optimize Query Design: Review the overall design of your query. Sometimes, optimizing the query by using filters or variables can help reduce the number of characteristics needed.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes related to this error message for any specific patches or updates that may address the issue.
  Documentation: Refer to the SAP BW/BI documentation for guidelines on best practices for query design and limitations on characteristics.
  Performance Considerations: Keep in mind that even if you manage to bypass the limit, having too many characteristics can lead to performance degradation, so always aim for a balance between detail and performance.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the R9164 error and create effective queries without exceeding the characteristic limits.