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How To Fix SDDL_PARSER_MSG406 - Column &1 must be defined as a key field


SAP Error Message - Details

  • Message type: E = Error

  • Message class: SDDL_PARSER_MSG - Message Class for DDL Parser

  • Message number: 406

  • Message text: Column &1 must be defined as a key field

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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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    First, use our AnswerBot below to get a possible cause and solution (requires a premium subscription).

    Also, review the in-depth Common Questions & Answers listed below; you could discover a solution there or be able to connect with others who have faced similar challenges.

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Smart SAP Assistant

  • What is the cause and solution for SAP error message SDDL_PARSER_MSG406 - Column &1 must be defined as a key field ?

    The SAP error message SDDL_PARSER_MSG406 indicates that a specific column (denoted as &1 in the message) must be defined as a key field in the context of a data model or database table definition. This error typically arises when you are working with the SAP Data Dictionary or when defining a structure or table in the ABAP Dictionary.

    Cause:

    The error occurs when:

    1. A column that is expected to be a key field (i.e., a field that uniquely identifies a record in a table) is not defined as such.
    2. The data model or table definition requires that certain fields be designated as key fields to ensure data integrity and proper indexing.

    Solution:

    To resolve this error, you need to define the specified column as a key field. Here are the steps to do this:

    1. Access the Data Dictionary:

      • Go to transaction code SE11 (Data Dictionary).
    2. Open the Table/Structure:

      • Enter the name of the table or structure that is causing the error and click on the "Display" button.
    3. Edit the Table/Structure:

      • Click on the "Change" button to edit the definition.
    4. Define Key Fields:

      • In the "Fields" tab, locate the column that is mentioned in the error message.
      • Select the checkbox in the "Key" column for that field to designate it as a key field.
    5. Save and Activate:

      • After making the changes, save your work and activate the table or structure.
    6. Check Dependencies:

      • If the table is used in other objects (like views, programs, etc.), ensure that those objects are also updated if necessary.

    Related Information:

    • Key Fields in SAP: Key fields are essential for uniquely identifying records in a database table. They are used for indexing and ensuring data integrity.
    • Data Dictionary Transactions:
      • SE11: Data Dictionary
      • SE14: Database Utility (for managing database objects)
      • SE80: Object Navigator (for working with various objects including tables)
    • Documentation: Refer to SAP Help documentation for more details on defining key fields and best practices for data modeling.

    If you continue to experience issues after following these steps, consider checking for any additional constraints or dependencies that may affect the table definition.

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