How To Fix TN687 - Update process currently running in Software Update Manager (SUM)

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: TN - Support Package Manager (SPAM) Messages

• Message number: 687

• Message text: Update process currently running in Software Update Manager (SUM)

What causes this issue?

The Software Update Manager (SUM) is currently used to update the SAP
System.

System Response

The System does not allow the execution of parallel update processes by
other tools, like the Support Package Manager or the Add-On Installation
Tool. Therefore, you cannot define and import a queue using these tools.

How to fix this error?

Check the currenty running update process in the Software Update Manager
and complete it there.

Procedure for System Administrators

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

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message TN687 - Update process currently running in Software Update Manager (SUM) ?

  The SAP error message TN687, which states "Update process currently running in Software Update Manager (SUM)," typically indicates that there is an ongoing update or maintenance process being executed by the Software Update Manager (SUM) tool. This can happen during system upgrades, support package installations, or other maintenance activities.
  Cause:
  
  Concurrent Update Process: The most common cause is that another update process is already running in the SUM. This could be due to a previous update that has not yet completed or was not properly terminated.
  Lock Files: SUM may have created lock files to prevent multiple instances from running simultaneously. If these lock files are not cleared after a process finishes, they can block new update attempts.
  System Configuration: Sometimes, system configuration issues or mismanagement of the SUM tool can lead to this error.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Running Processes: 
  
  Log into the system and check if there is an active SUM process. You can do this by checking the transaction SM37 (Job Monitoring) or looking at the process list in the operating system.
  If you find an active SUM process that is stuck or taking too long, you may need to investigate further or terminate it if it is safe to do so.
  
  
  
  Review Logs: 
  
  Check the SUM logs for any errors or warnings that might indicate why the process is taking longer than expected. The logs can usually be found in the directory where SUM is installed.
  
  
  
  Remove Lock Files: 
  
  If you are sure that no SUM process is running, you can manually remove the lock files. These files are typically located in the SUM directory under the lock subdirectory. Be cautious when doing this, as removing lock files while a process is still running can lead to data corruption.
  
  
  
  Restart SUM: 
  
  If the above steps do not resolve the issue, you may need to restart the SUM tool. Ensure that no other processes are running before doing this.
  
  
  
  System Restart: 
  
  In some cases, a complete system restart may be necessary to clear any lingering processes or locks.
  
  
  
  Consult SAP Notes: 
  
  Check the SAP Support Portal for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error or provide additional troubleshooting steps.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Documentation: Refer to the official SAP documentation for Software Update Manager for detailed instructions on how to use the tool and troubleshoot common issues.
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums where other users may have encountered similar issues and can provide insights or solutions.
  SAP Support: If the issue persists and you are unable to resolve it, consider reaching out to SAP Support for assistance.
  
  Always ensure that you have proper backups and that you are following best practices when performing updates or maintenance on your SAP systems.