How To Fix SY246 - Operating system sort error &: &, sort file &

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: SY - ABAP/4 system messages

• Message number: 246

• Message text: Operating system sort error &: &, sort file &

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.

What else can you do?

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.

You can also try searching the SAP support portal (support.sap.com) but you need a special user ID to access it. It is possible that an SAP support note exists that provides additional details about the mistake or even steps for fixing it.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message SY246 - Operating system sort error &: &, sort file & ?

  The SAP error message SY246, which indicates an "Operating system sort error," typically occurs when there is an issue with the sorting operation in the SAP system. This error can arise due to various reasons, including problems with the sort file, insufficient system resources, or issues with the operating system itself.
  Causes of SY246 Error
  
  Sort File Issues: The sort file specified in the error message may not be accessible, may not have the correct permissions, or may be corrupted.
  Insufficient Disk Space: The disk where the sort file is being created may be full, preventing the sort operation from completing.
  Memory Limitations: The system may not have enough memory allocated to perform the sort operation.
  Operating System Limitations: There may be restrictions or limitations imposed by the operating system that affect the sorting process.
  Configuration Issues: Incorrect configuration settings in the SAP system or the underlying operating system can lead to this error.
  
  Solutions
  
  
  Check Sort File Path: Verify that the sort file path specified in the error message is correct and that the file is accessible. Ensure that the file has the necessary permissions for the SAP user to read and write.
  
  
  Free Up Disk Space: Check the disk space on the server where the sort file is being created. If the disk is full, free up some space or change the sort file location to a disk with sufficient space.
  
  
  Increase Memory Allocation: If the system is running low on memory, consider increasing the memory allocation for the SAP instance. This can be done through the SAP profile parameters.
  
  
  Review Operating System Settings: Check for any operating system-level restrictions that may be affecting the sort operation. This may include file size limits or user permissions.
  
  
  Check SAP Notes: Look for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error. SAP frequently releases updates and patches that can resolve known issues.
  
  
  Restart the SAP System: In some cases, a simple restart of the SAP system can resolve temporary issues related to memory or file access.
  
  
  Contact SAP Support: If the issue persists after trying the above solutions, consider reaching out to SAP support for further assistance. Provide them with the error details and any relevant logs.
  
  
  Related Information
  
  SAP Documentation: Refer to the official SAP documentation for more details on error handling and troubleshooting.
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums to see if other users have encountered similar issues and what solutions they found effective.
  System Logs: Check the system logs (transaction SM21) for any additional error messages or warnings that may provide more context about the issue.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to diagnose and resolve the SY246 error in your SAP system.