How To Fix RT551 - SAP buffer: ABAP program (Program)

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: RT - Monitoring infrastructure MSG and alert texts

• Message number: 551

• Message text: SAP buffer: ABAP program (Program)

What causes this issue?

The program buffer (also called ABAP buffer or PXA buffer) contains the
compiled SAP programs.
You can set the maximum size of the program buffer in the system
parameter <ZH>abap/buffersize</>. The system calculates from this the
maximum number of entries in the buffer directory. Specify the value in
system parameter <ZH>abap/buffersize</> in kilobytes .

How to fix this error?

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

INCLUDE BC_BUFFER_INFO1 OBJECT DOKU ID TX LANGUAGE EN
Typical sizes of the program buffer are between 240.000 and 400.000 KB,
depending on the server's work memory, with development systems
requiring larger buffers. The program buffer can be too small, even if
the system displays free space there. If the hit rate is too low or the
swap is too high, you can change the share of the buffer for small and
large programs in addition to changing the size of the buffer.
INCLUDE BC_BUFFER_INFO2 OBJECT DOKU ID TX LANGUAGE EN

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message RT551 - SAP buffer: ABAP program (Program) ?

  The SAP error message RT551 typically indicates an issue related to the SAP buffer, specifically concerning the ABAP program. This error can occur when there is a problem with the program's buffer management, which can lead to inconsistencies or issues in the execution of the program.
  Cause:
  
  Buffer Overflow: The program may be trying to access more data than the buffer can handle.
  Inconsistent Buffer State: The buffer may not be in a consistent state due to previous operations or transactions.
  Program Changes: If the ABAP program has been modified but the buffer has not been refreshed, it can lead to this error.
  Database Issues: Problems with the underlying database can also cause buffer-related errors.
  
  Solution:
  
  Refresh the Buffer: You can refresh the buffer for the specific program. This can often be done by executing the program again or using transaction codes like SE38 or SE80 to recompile the program.
  Check Program Logic: Review the ABAP code for any potential issues that could lead to buffer overflow or incorrect data handling.
  Clear Buffer: In some cases, you may need to clear the entire buffer. This can be done using transaction SM12 to delete lock entries or SM21 to check the system log for any related issues.
  Check for Updates: Ensure that your SAP system is up to date with the latest patches and updates, as these can resolve known issues.
  Consult SAP Notes: Look for relevant SAP Notes in the SAP Support Portal that may address this specific error or provide additional troubleshooting steps.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with transaction codes like SE38 (ABAP Editor), SE80 (Object Navigator), and SM37 (Job Monitoring) for debugging and monitoring.
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums for insights from other users who may have encountered similar issues.
  Documentation: Review SAP documentation for best practices on buffer management and ABAP programming to prevent such errors in the future.
  
  If the problem persists after trying the above solutions, it may be necessary to involve your SAP Basis team or SAP support for further investigation.