How To Fix /SMB/SC_MAIN168 - Unexpected error while deleting data in database

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: /SMB/SC_MAIN -

• Message number: 168

• Message text: Unexpected error while deleting data in database

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 /SMB/SC_MAIN168 - Unexpected error while deleting data in database ?

  The SAP error message /SMB/SC_MAIN168 Unexpected error while deleting data in database typically indicates that there was an issue when attempting to delete data from the database, which could be due to various reasons. Here are some potential causes, solutions, and related information:
  Causes:
  
  Database Locking Issues: The data you are trying to delete may be locked by another transaction or user.
  Foreign Key Constraints: There may be foreign key constraints preventing the deletion of the data.
  Insufficient Authorizations: The user executing the delete operation may not have the necessary authorizations.
  Database Corruption: There could be corruption in the database that is causing the delete operation to fail.
  System Configuration Issues: There may be configuration issues within the SAP system or the database that are causing the error.
  Data Integrity Issues: The data being deleted may not meet the integrity constraints defined in the database.
  
  Solutions:
  
  Check for Locks: Use transaction codes like SM12 to check for any locks on the database tables. If locks are found, you may need to wait for them to be released or manually release them if appropriate.
  Review Foreign Key Constraints: Check the database schema for any foreign key constraints that may be preventing the deletion. You may need to delete dependent records first.
  Verify Authorizations: Ensure that the user has the necessary authorizations to perform delete operations on the relevant tables.
  Database Consistency Check: Run a consistency check on the database to identify and fix any corruption issues. This may involve using tools like DB02 or DBACOCKPIT.
  Check System Logs: Review the system logs (transaction SM21) for any additional error messages or warnings that may provide more context about the issue.
  Consult SAP Notes: Search for relevant SAP Notes in the SAP Support Portal that may address this specific error message or provide guidance on similar issues.
  Contact SAP Support: If the issue persists and you cannot identify the cause, consider reaching out to SAP Support for assistance.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as SE11 (Data Dictionary), SE16 (Data Browser), SM12 (Lock Entries), and SM21 (System Log).
  Database Administration: If you have access to database administration tools, you may want to check the database logs for any errors or warnings that coincide with the time of the delete operation.
  Backup and Recovery: Always ensure that you have a recent backup of your database before performing delete operations, especially if you suspect data integrity issues.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to diagnose and resolve the error message /SMB/SC_MAIN168 Unexpected error while deleting data in database.