How To Fix R9E018 - Incorrect reference characteristic '&1' in variable '&2'

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: R9E - Error Messages for Query Designer .NET

• Message number: 018

• Message text: Incorrect reference characteristic '&1' in variable '&2'

What causes this issue?

The variable uses an erroneous reference characteristic.

System Response

This is an error message.
Variables with erroneous reference characteristics cannot be used.

How to fix this error?

Once saved, a reference characteristic for a variable can no longer be
edited. Remove the erroneous reference characteristic before saving and
replace it with a valid reference characteristic.

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 R9E018 - Incorrect reference characteristic '&1' in variable '&2' ?

  The SAP error message R9E018, which states "Incorrect reference characteristic '&1' in variable '&2'," typically occurs in the context of SAP BW (Business Warehouse) or SAP HANA when there is an issue with the definition of a variable in a query or report. This error indicates that the reference characteristic specified in the variable definition is not valid or cannot be resolved.
  Cause:
  
  Invalid Characteristic: The characteristic referenced in the variable definition (&1) may not exist in the InfoObject catalog or may have been deleted or renamed.
  Incorrect Variable Definition: The variable (&2) may be incorrectly defined, or it may not be properly linked to the characteristic.
  Data Source Issues: The data source or InfoProvider being used may not contain the characteristic, or there may be issues with the data model.
  Authorization Issues: The user may not have the necessary authorizations to access the characteristic or the data source.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Characteristic Existence: Verify that the characteristic referenced in the variable exists in the InfoObject catalog. If it has been renamed or deleted, update the variable definition accordingly.
  Review Variable Definition: Go to the query designer or the relevant area where the variable is defined and ensure that it is correctly set up. Make sure that the variable is linked to the correct characteristic.
  Validate Data Source: Ensure that the data source or InfoProvider being used in the query contains the characteristic. If necessary, refresh or re-activate the data source.
  Check Authorizations: Ensure that the user has the necessary authorizations to access the characteristic and the data source. This may involve checking roles and authorizations in the SAP system.
  Test the Query: After making the necessary adjustments, test the query to see if the error persists. If it does, further investigation may be needed.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message. SAP frequently updates its knowledge base with solutions for common problems.
  Documentation: Refer to the SAP BW or SAP HANA documentation for detailed information on variable definitions and characteristics.
  Community Forums: Engage with SAP community forums or user groups where similar issues may have been discussed, and solutions shared.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the issue causing the R9E018 error message in your SAP environment.