How To Fix /SAPAPO/CULL004 - Error evaluating MDATA: Characteristic &1 is not a ref. characteristic


SAP Error Message - Details

  • Message type: E = Error

  • Message class: /SAPAPO/CULL -

  • Message number: 004

  • Message text: Error evaluating MDATA: Characteristic &1 is not a ref. characteristic

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  • 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.

    Unfortunately, there isn't any extra information in this error notice.



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Smart SAP Assistant

  • What is the cause and solution for SAP error message /SAPAPO/CULL004 - Error evaluating MDATA: Characteristic &1 is not a ref. characteristic ?

    The SAP error message /SAPAPO/CULL004 indicates that there is an issue with the evaluation of master data in the Advanced Planning and Optimization (APO) module. Specifically, the error states that a characteristic (denoted as &1) is not a reference characteristic, which is required for the operation being performed.

    Cause:

    1. Incorrect Characteristic Configuration: The characteristic in question is expected to be a reference characteristic, but it is not configured as such in the system.
    2. Master Data Issues: There may be inconsistencies or missing configurations in the master data that relate to the characteristic.
    3. Data Model Issues: The data model being used may not align with the expected configuration for the characteristics involved in the planning process.

    Solution:

    1. Check Characteristic Configuration:

      • Go to the SAP APO system and check the configuration of the characteristic that is causing the error.
      • Ensure that the characteristic is set up as a reference characteristic if it is required for the process you are executing.
    2. Review Master Data:

      • Verify the master data associated with the characteristic. Ensure that all necessary attributes and values are correctly defined.
      • If the characteristic is supposed to reference another characteristic, ensure that the referenced characteristic is correctly defined and active.
    3. Adjust Planning Object Structure:

      • If applicable, review the planning object structure to ensure that it is correctly set up to include the necessary reference characteristics.
    4. Consult Documentation:

      • Review SAP documentation or notes related to the specific error message for any additional guidance or updates that may be relevant.
    5. Testing:

      • After making the necessary adjustments, test the process again to see if the error persists.

    Related Information:

    • SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error or provide additional troubleshooting steps.
    • Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with transaction codes such as /SAPAPO/MDP (for master data planning) and /SAPAPO/MC62 (for characteristic configuration) to help in diagnosing the issue.
    • APO Configuration: Understanding the configuration of the APO system, including how characteristics and key figures are defined, can be crucial in resolving such issues.

    If the problem persists after following these steps, it may be beneficial to consult with an SAP expert or reach out to SAP support for further assistance.

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