How To Fix SOTR_MESS138 - The text &1 characters long, but only &2 is allowed

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: SOTR_MESS - Messages in and for the Online Text Repository

• Message number: 138

• Message text: The text &1 characters long, but only &2 is allowed

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 SOTR_MESS138 - The text &1 characters long, but only &2 is allowed ?

  The SAP error message SOTR_MESS138 indicates that there is a text length issue in your SAP system. Specifically, it means that the text you are trying to enter or process is longer than the allowed maximum length for that particular field or object. The message format typically looks like this:
  
  &1: The actual length of the text you are trying to enter.
  &2: The maximum allowed length for that field.
  
  Cause
  This error usually occurs in scenarios where:
  
  You are trying to input a description, comment, or any text field that has a predefined maximum length.
  The text you are entering exceeds the limit set in the system configuration or in the specific data structure.
  
  Solution
  To resolve this error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Check the Field Length: Identify the field that is causing the error and check its maximum allowed length. This can usually be found in the data dictionary (SE11) or by checking the field properties in the relevant transaction.
  
  
  Shorten the Text: Modify the text you are trying to enter to ensure it does not exceed the maximum length. This may involve:
  
  Abbreviating words.
  Removing unnecessary characters or spaces.
  Summarizing the content.
  
  
  
  Review Configuration: If you believe the text length should be increased, you may need to review the configuration settings in your SAP system. This may require:
  
  Consulting with your SAP Basis or ABAP team to see if the field length can be adjusted in the data dictionary.
  Ensuring that any changes comply with business requirements and do not affect other functionalities.
  
  
  
  Testing: After making the necessary adjustments, test the input again to ensure that the error no longer occurs.
  
  
  Related Information
  
  Transaction Codes: You may need to use transaction codes like SE11 (Data Dictionary), SE37 (Function Modules), or SE80 (Object Navigator) to investigate the data structure and field definitions.
  Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help files for specific details on the object or field you are working with.
  SAP Notes: Check the SAP Support Portal for any relevant SAP Notes that might address this issue or provide additional guidance.
  
  If the problem persists after following these steps, consider reaching out to your SAP support team for further assistance.