How To Fix RD171 - Error when initializing characteristic determination during extraction

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: RD - CO-PA Connection to SAP BW

• Message number: 171

• Message text: Error when initializing characteristic determination during extraction

Self-Explanatory Message

Since SAP believes that this specific error message is 'self-explanatory,' no more information has been given.The majority of messages in the SAP system have a message text, however this is frequently insufficient to comprehend or resolve the problem.

To make things easier, more detailed information is frequently added to describe the issue, how to fix it, and the necessary steps or configuration modifications.

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message RD171 - Error when initializing characteristic determination during extraction ?

  The SAP error message RD171, which occurs during the initialization of characteristic determination in the context of data extraction, typically indicates that there is an issue with the configuration or data setup related to the characteristic determination process. This error can arise in various scenarios, particularly when working with SAP BW (Business Warehouse) or SAP BI (Business Intelligence).
  Cause of RD171 Error
  
  
  Missing or Incorrect Configuration: The characteristic determination process relies on specific configurations in the SAP system. If these configurations are missing or incorrect, the system may not be able to initialize the characteristic determination.
  
  
  Data Inconsistencies: If the data being extracted has inconsistencies or does not meet the expected format or criteria, it can lead to this error.
  
  
  Authorization Issues: Sometimes, the user executing the extraction may not have the necessary authorizations to access the required data or perform the characteristic determination.
  
  
  Transport Issues: If there have been recent transports that included changes to the characteristic determination settings, it may lead to inconsistencies if not properly managed.
  
  
  Version Compatibility: If there are version mismatches between the source system and the BW system, it can lead to errors during data extraction.
  
  
  Solutions to RD171 Error
  
  
  Check Configuration: Review the configuration settings for characteristic determination in the SAP system. Ensure that all necessary settings are correctly defined and activated.
  
  
  Data Validation: Validate the data being extracted to ensure it meets the required criteria. Look for any inconsistencies or missing values that could be causing the error.
  
  
  Authorization Check: Verify that the user has the necessary authorizations to perform the extraction and access the required data.
  
  
  Transport Management: If recent transports have been made, check if they were successful and if all necessary objects were included. You may need to re-import or adjust the transport.
  
  
  System Logs: Check the system logs (transaction SLG1) for more detailed error messages that can provide additional context on what might be causing the RD171 error.
  
  
  SAP Notes: Search for relevant SAP Notes in the SAP Support Portal that may address this specific error. SAP frequently releases notes that provide fixes or workarounds for known issues.
  
  
  Testing: If possible, test the extraction process in a development or quality assurance environment to isolate the issue without affecting production data.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: Review the official SAP documentation related to characteristic determination and data extraction for any additional insights or troubleshooting steps.
  
  
  Related Information
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as RSA1 (Data Warehousing Workbench) and RSC1 (InfoObject Maintenance) for managing and troubleshooting data extraction processes.
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums where other users may have encountered similar issues and can provide insights or solutions.
  SAP Support: If the issue persists, consider reaching out to SAP Support for assistance, especially if you have a support contract.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to diagnose and resolve the RD171 error effectively.