How To Fix TE817 - Field length for characteristic & is too large

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: TE - Market Risk Management

• Message number: 817

• Message text: Field length for characteristic & is too large

What causes this issue?

The internal description of the given characteristic is too large.
Portfolio hierarchies can only use characteristics with a maximum field
length of 32 characters.

System Response

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

How to fix this error?

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message TE817 - Field length for characteristic & is too large ?

  The SAP error message TE817, which states "Field length for characteristic & is too large," typically occurs in the context of SAP's data modeling, particularly when working with characteristics in the context of SAP BW (Business Warehouse) or SAP HANA. This error indicates that the length of a characteristic field exceeds the maximum allowed length defined in the system.
  Cause:
  
  Exceeding Field Length: The characteristic you are trying to create or modify has a defined length that is larger than what is allowed by the system. For example, if a characteristic is defined to hold a string of 30 characters, but you are trying to input a string of 50 characters, this error will occur.
  Data Type Mismatch: The data type of the characteristic may not match the expected data type in the database or data model.
  Configuration Issues: There may be issues in the configuration of the InfoObject or the data model that lead to inconsistencies in field lengths.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Characteristic Definition: Review the definition of the characteristic in the SAP system. Ensure that the field length is set appropriately for the data you intend to store. You can do this by navigating to the InfoObject in the SAP BW modeling tools.
  Adjust Field Length: If the field length is indeed too short, you may need to increase the length of the characteristic. This can be done in the InfoObject maintenance screen.
  Data Cleansing: If the data being loaded into the characteristic is coming from an external source, ensure that the data is cleansed and conforms to the expected length before loading it into SAP.
  Review Data Types: Ensure that the data types of the source and target fields are compatible. If necessary, adjust the data types to match.
  Re-validate Data Model: After making changes, re-validate the data model to ensure that all characteristics and fields are correctly defined and that there are no further issues.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any specific patches or updates related to this error message. SAP frequently releases updates that may address known issues.
  Documentation: Refer to the SAP Help Portal for detailed documentation on InfoObjects and characteristics, including best practices for defining field lengths.
  Community Forums: Engage with SAP community forums or user groups where similar issues may have been discussed, and solutions shared.
  
  If the problem persists after following these steps, it may be beneficial to consult with an SAP technical consultant or support for further assistance.