How To Fix RT557 - SAP Buffer: Field description (FieldDescription)

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

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

• Message number: 557

• Message text: SAP Buffer: Field description (FieldDescription)

What causes this issue?

The FieldDescription buffer (also called FTAB buffer) contains field
descriptions from the SAP R/3 Repository.
You can set the maximum size of the buffer using system parameter
<ZH>rsdb/ntab/ftabsize</>. The system sets the maximum number of
entries in the buffer directory depending on the maximum number of
entries in the TableDefinition buffer:
<ZH>2 * rsdb/ntab/entycount + 1</>
Specify the value for system parameter rsdb/ntab/ftabsize 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
A typical size setting for the buffer is around 20.000 - 30.000 KB.
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 RT557 - SAP Buffer: Field description (FieldDescription) ?

  The SAP error message RT557, which pertains to the SAP Buffer and specifically to the "Field description (FieldDescription)," typically indicates an issue with the buffer management in the SAP system. This error can arise due to various reasons, including inconsistencies in the buffer, issues with the data dictionary, or problems with the transport of objects.
  Cause:
  
  Buffer Inconsistencies: The SAP buffer may have become inconsistent due to changes in the data dictionary or transport issues.
  Transport Issues: If objects have been transported between systems (e.g., from development to production), there may be discrepancies in the buffer.
  Data Dictionary Changes: Changes made to the data dictionary (like field definitions) that are not reflected in the buffer can lead to this error.
  System Configuration Issues: Misconfigurations in the SAP system can also lead to buffer-related errors.
  
  Solution:
  
  Refresh the Buffer: The first step in resolving this error is to refresh the buffer. This can be done using transaction code SM12 to delete any locks and then using SM30 to refresh the relevant tables.
  Check Transport Logs: Review the transport logs to ensure that all objects were transported correctly and that there are no errors.
  Rebuild the Buffer: You can use transaction SE11 to check the data dictionary objects and ensure they are correctly defined. If necessary, you can also use transaction SE14 to activate and rebuild the buffer for specific database tables.
  Check for Notes: Look for SAP Notes related to this error message. SAP frequently releases notes that address specific issues, and applying these notes can resolve the problem.
  System Restart: In some cases, a system restart may help clear any temporary inconsistencies in the buffer.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as SE11 (Data Dictionary), SE14 (Database Utility), and SM12 (Lock Entries).
  SAP Notes: Regularly check the SAP Support Portal for any notes related to buffer issues or the specific error message RT557.
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums to see if other users have encountered similar issues and what solutions they have found effective.
  
  If the problem persists after trying the above solutions, it may be necessary to consult with your SAP Basis team or SAP support for further assistance.