How To Fix /SDF/DB6138 - Maximum number of overflow page accesses since last REORG

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: /SDF/DB6 -

• Message number: 138

• Message text: Maximum number of overflow page accesses since last REORG

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message /SDF/DB6138 - Maximum number of overflow page accesses since last REORG ?

  The SAP error message /SDF/DB6138 Maximum number of overflow page accesses since last REORG typically indicates that the database has reached a threshold for accessing overflow pages, which are used to store data that cannot fit into the main data pages. This situation often arises in the context of database performance and data management.
  Cause:
  
  Data Growth: The primary cause of this error is the growth of data in a table that exceeds the allocated space in the main data pages, leading to the use of overflow pages.
  Lack of Regular Maintenance: If regular database maintenance tasks, such as reorganizing tables, are not performed, the number of overflow pages can increase, leading to performance degradation.
  Inefficient Data Structure: Poorly designed data structures or indexes can lead to excessive use of overflow pages.
  High Transaction Volume: A high volume of transactions can lead to frequent accesses of overflow pages, triggering the error.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Perform a REORG: The immediate solution is to perform a database reorganization (REORG) on the affected table. This process will compact the data, remove overflow pages, and optimize the storage.
  
  You can execute the REORG command in the database management tools or through SAP transaction codes (like DB02 for database monitoring).
  
  
  
  Monitor and Adjust Database Settings: Check the database settings and parameters related to page sizes and overflow handling. Adjusting these settings may help manage overflow pages more effectively.
  
  
  Review Data Model: Analyze the data model and consider optimizing the table structure or indexes to reduce the likelihood of overflow pages being used.
  
  
  Regular Maintenance Schedule: Establish a regular maintenance schedule for database reorganization and monitoring to prevent the issue from recurring.
  
  
  Increase Storage Capacity: If the data growth is expected to continue, consider increasing the storage capacity for the database or partitioning large tables to manage data more effectively.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Database Monitoring: Use transaction codes like DB02 or DBACOCKPIT to monitor database performance and identify tables with high overflow page usage.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any specific recommendations or patches related to this error message.
  Performance Tuning: Consider performance tuning strategies for your database, including indexing, partitioning, and archiving old data.
  Documentation: Refer to the SAP documentation for your specific database (e.g., HANA, Oracle, SQL Server) for best practices on managing overflow pages and performing reorganization.
  
  By addressing the underlying causes and implementing regular maintenance practices, you can mitigate the occurrence of this error and improve overall database performance.