How To Fix SY120 - Common area & in & has incorrect length

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: SY - ABAP/4 system messages

• Message number: 120

• Message text: Common area & in & has incorrect length

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.

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message SY120 - Common area & in & has incorrect length ?

  The SAP error message "SY120 Common area & in & has incorrect length" typically indicates that there is a mismatch in the expected length of a data structure or common area in your ABAP program. This error often arises when the program is trying to access or manipulate data that does not conform to the expected format or length.
  Cause:
  
  Data Structure Mismatch: The most common cause is that the length of a field in a data structure does not match the length defined in the program or the database.
  Incorrect Field Length: If you are using a field that has been defined with a specific length, but the data being passed to it exceeds that length, this error can occur.
  Changes in Data Dictionary: If there have been recent changes to the data dictionary (like changes in table definitions or structures) that are not reflected in the program, it can lead to this error.
  Inconsistent Data Types: If there is an inconsistency in the data types being used (for example, using a character field where a numeric field is expected), it can also trigger this error.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Data Definitions: Review the data definitions in your ABAP program and ensure that they match the definitions in the data dictionary. Pay special attention to the lengths of fields.
  Adjust Field Lengths: If you find that the lengths are mismatched, adjust the field lengths in your program to match those defined in the data dictionary.
  Recompile the Program: After making changes, recompile the program to ensure that all changes are applied.
  Debugging: Use the ABAP debugger to trace the execution of the program and identify where the error occurs. This can help you pinpoint the exact location and cause of the issue.
  Check for Updates: If the program is using standard SAP objects, check if there have been any updates or notes from SAP that address this issue.
  
  Related Information:
  
  ABAP Data Types: Familiarize yourself with ABAP data types and their lengths to avoid such issues in the future.
  SAP Notes: Search for relevant SAP Notes in the SAP Support Portal that might address this specific error or provide additional context.
  Documentation: Review the documentation for the specific function modules or methods being used in your program to ensure that you are passing the correct parameters.
  
  If the issue persists after following these steps, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting with an experienced ABAP developer for further assistance.