How To Fix TD364 - Link chain is endless or too long (& links)

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: TD - SAPscript: Text editor, composer, forms, styles and fonts

• Message number: 364

• Message text: Link chain is endless or too long (& links)

What causes this issue?

The fontmetrics file (AFM file) contains an endless or too long chain
of links. If an AFM file referred to by a link also contains a link to
another AFM file and the link chain continues in this way, the search
for the final AFM file is terminated at a specific length of the link
chain.

System Response

The system sends an error message.

How to fix this error?

Correct the link in the fontmetrics by editing the fontmetrics file and
correcting the link. Enter the key of an available fontmetrics file.
Make sure this AFM file does not also contain a link. A correct link
appears as follows:

The system issues an error message and will not allow you to continue with this transaction until the error is resolved.

sapLinkToAFM HPLJIIID HELVE 120 false true
This statement represents a link to the AFM file for HPLJIIID HELVE 120
not bold, italic. If a link is inserted in an AFM file, this line with
the link must be the only line in the fontmetrics. Other additional
specifications are not allowed.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message TD364 - Link chain is endless or too long (& links) ?

  The SAP error message TD364, which states "Link chain is endless or too long (& links)," typically occurs in the context of transport requests and the transport management system (TMS) in SAP. This error indicates that there is a problem with the transport links, which can lead to an infinite loop or an excessively long chain of transport requests.
  Cause:
  
  Circular Dependencies: The most common cause of this error is circular dependencies between transport requests. This means that one transport request is dependent on another, which in turn is dependent on the first, creating a loop.
  Long Dependency Chains: If there are too many transport requests linked together, the system may exceed the maximum allowed length for a chain of dependencies.
  Incorrect Transport Configuration: Misconfiguration in the transport routes or incorrect settings in the transport management system can also lead to this error.
  
  Solution:
  
  Analyze Transport Requests: Use transaction codes like SE01 (Transport Organizer) or SE09 (Workbench Organizer) to analyze the transport requests and their dependencies. Look for circular references or excessively long chains.
  Remove Circular Dependencies: If you identify circular dependencies, you will need to break the loop by adjusting the transport requests. This may involve removing or modifying the dependencies.
  Limit Chain Length: If the chain is too long, consider breaking it into smaller, more manageable transport requests. This can help avoid hitting the limits set by the system.
  Check Transport Routes: Review the transport routes in TMS (transaction STMS) to ensure they are correctly configured and do not create unnecessary dependencies.
  Consult SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error or provide guidance on best practices for managing transport requests.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with transaction codes like SE01, SE09, STMS, and SE10 for managing transport requests and analyzing dependencies.
  Transport Management System (TMS): Understanding how TMS works and how to configure it properly can help prevent such errors in the future.
  SAP Documentation: Refer to SAP's official documentation for detailed information on transport management and best practices for handling transport requests.
  
  If the issue persists after trying the above solutions, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP Basis team or reach out to SAP support for further assistance.