How To Fix /SCWM/MFS123 - Communication channel &1 (&2) is locked by another process

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: /SCWM/MFS -

• Message number: 123

• Message text: Communication channel &1 (&2) is locked by another process

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message /SCWM/MFS123 - Communication channel &1 (&2) is locked by another process ?

  The SAP error message /SCWM/MFS123 Communication channel &1 (&2) is locked by another process typically occurs in the context of the SAP Extended Warehouse Management (EWM) system, particularly when dealing with the Material Flow System (MFS) integration. This error indicates that a communication channel, which is essential for the interaction between the EWM and the MFS, is currently locked by another process. 
  Cause:
  
  Concurrent Access: The most common cause of this error is that another process is currently using the communication channel. This could happen if multiple transactions or processes are trying to access the same channel simultaneously.
  Long-Running Processes: If a process takes too long to complete, it may hold the lock on the communication channel longer than expected, preventing other processes from accessing it.
  System Configuration Issues: Misconfigurations in the system settings or communication channel settings can also lead to locking issues.
  Deadlocks: In some cases, a deadlock situation may arise where two or more processes are waiting for each other to release locks.
  
  Solution:
  
  Identify the Locking Process: Use transaction codes like SM12 (for lock entries) to identify which process is holding the lock on the communication channel. You can check for the user and transaction that is causing the lock.
  Terminate the Locking Process: If it is safe to do so, you can terminate the process that is holding the lock. This can be done through transaction SM37 (for job monitoring) or SM12 (for lock entries).
  Review Process Logic: If the locking is due to long-running processes, review the logic of the processes to optimize them and reduce the time they hold locks.
  Adjust Configuration: Check the configuration of the communication channels in the MFS settings to ensure they are set up correctly and are not prone to locking issues.
  Increase Timeout Settings: If applicable, consider increasing the timeout settings for the communication channels to allow for longer processing times without locking.
  Monitor System Performance: Regularly monitor system performance and process execution times to identify potential bottlenecks that could lead to locking issues.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error or provide additional troubleshooting steps.
  Documentation: Review the SAP EWM and MFS documentation for best practices on managing communication channels and handling locks.
  System Logs: Analyze system logs (transaction SLG1) for any additional error messages or warnings that may provide context for the locking issue.
  Support: If the issue persists, consider reaching out to SAP support for further assistance, especially if it impacts business operations.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the locking issue related to the communication channel in SAP EWM/MFS.