How To Fix SY455 - You cannot search in tables with display formats "C" and "X"

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: SY - ABAP/4 system messages

• Message number: 455

• Message text: You cannot search in tables with display formats "C" and "X"

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message SY455 - You cannot search in tables with display formats "C" and "X" ?

  The SAP error message SY455 indicates that you are attempting to perform a search operation on database tables that have display formats "C" (character) and "X" (binary). In SAP, certain display formats are not allowed for search operations due to their nature and the way data is structured.
  Cause:
  The error occurs when you try to execute a search or query on a table that is defined with a display format that does not support such operations. Specifically:
  
  Display Format "C": This format is used for character-type fields.
  Display Format "X": This format is used for binary data.
  
  These formats are not suitable for search operations because they do not allow for the same kind of indexing and searching capabilities as other formats.
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, consider the following approaches:
  
  
  Change the Search Criteria: If possible, modify your search criteria to avoid using fields with display formats "C" or "X". Instead, use fields that are indexed and can be searched effectively.
  
  
  Use Alternative Queries: If you need to retrieve data from these tables, consider using alternative methods such as:
  
  Using ABAP programs to read the data directly.
  Utilizing function modules or BAPIs that can handle the data retrieval without directly querying the tables.
  
  
  
  Check Table Definitions: Review the definitions of the tables you are querying. If you have control over the table design, consider changing the display format of the fields if it makes sense for your application.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for more information on the specific tables and their display formats. This can provide insights into how to work with the data effectively.
  
  
  Contact SAP Support: If you are unable to resolve the issue, consider reaching out to SAP support for assistance, especially if this error is impacting critical business processes.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that might address this specific error or provide additional context.
  ABAP Development: If you are an ABAP developer, familiarize yourself with the data types and display formats in SAP to avoid similar issues in the future.
  Performance Considerations: Be aware that using non-indexed fields for searches can lead to performance issues, so always aim to use indexed fields when performing queries.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to address the SY455 error and improve your data retrieval processes in SAP.