How To Fix SY320 - DB field with LIKE operator contains an invalid type

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: SY - ABAP/4 system messages

• Message number: 320

• Message text: DB field with LIKE operator contains an invalid type

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message SY320 - DB field with LIKE operator contains an invalid type ?

  The SAP error message "SY320 DB field with LIKE operator contains an invalid type" typically occurs when there is an issue with the data type of a field being used in a SQL query with the LIKE operator. The LIKE operator is used for pattern matching in SQL, and it is generally applicable to character-type fields (e.g., CHAR, VARCHAR). If you attempt to use LIKE with a non-character data type (e.g., numeric or date fields), you will encounter this error.
  Cause
  The error is caused by one of the following:
  
  Invalid Data Type: The field you are trying to use with the LIKE operator is not of a character type.
  Incorrect Query Syntax: There may be a syntax error in the SQL query that leads to the misinterpretation of the field type.
  Implicit Conversion Issues: Sometimes, implicit conversion may not work as expected, leading to this error.
  
  Solution
  To resolve the error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Check Field Data Type: Verify the data type of the field you are using with the LIKE operator. Ensure that it is a character type (CHAR, VARCHAR, etc.).
  
  
  Convert Data Type: If the field is not a character type, you can convert it to a string type using the appropriate conversion function. For example, you can use CONVERT or CAST functions to convert numeric or date fields to a string before using them with LIKE.
  Example:
  SELECT * FROM your_table WHERE CAST(your_numeric_field AS CHAR) LIKE 'pattern%'
  
  
  Review SQL Query: Double-check the SQL query for any syntax errors or logical issues that might lead to the misinterpretation of field types.
  
  
  Use Appropriate Operators: If you are working with non-character fields, consider using other comparison operators (e.g., =, >, <) that are appropriate for the data type.
  
  
  Related Information
  
  Documentation: Refer to the SAP documentation for more details on SQL syntax and data types.
  Data Dictionary: Use the Data Dictionary (SE11) in SAP to check the data types of the fields in your database tables.
  Debugging: If you are working within an ABAP program, you can use the debugger to inspect the values and types of the variables being used in the SQL query.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the error and implement a solution to resolve it.