How To Fix TPDA170 - User/external breakpoints exist but could not be used

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: TPDA - Debugger

• Message number: 170

• Message text: User/external breakpoints exist but could not be used

What causes this issue?

When user breakpoints and external breakpoints are created, they are
only active while the logon session in which they were set remains
active. If this logon has been closed, then although the set user
breakpoints and external breakpoints still exist, they cannot be
considered due to technical reasons.
The reason for this is that the debugger screen is always sent to the
terminal with the logon in which the user breakpoints or external
breakpoints were set. If this logon no longer exists, the system assumes
that a debugger screen can no longer be sent.
There is also a limited time frame for how long the user breakpoints and
external breakpoints are active. This is usually set to 2 hours. After
this time has passed, the breakpoints still exist, but are no longer
considered.

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?

To have the existing user breakpoints and external breakpoints be
considered again, all you have to do is set a new user breakpoint or
external breakpoint in the ABAP Editor or in the ABAP Debugger. All user
breakpoints and external breakpoints that exist for this user are then
added to this logon.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message TPDA170 - User/external breakpoints exist but could not be used ?

  The SAP error message TPDA170 indicates that there are user or external breakpoints set in the system, but they cannot be used in the current context. This typically occurs when you are trying to debug a program or transaction, and the debugger is unable to activate due to existing breakpoints that are not applicable.
  Causes:
  
  User Breakpoints: These are breakpoints set by a user in the ABAP debugger. If the user is not authorized or if the session is not in a state where these breakpoints can be activated, this error may occur.
  External Breakpoints: These are breakpoints set by external tools or other users. If the session is not in a valid state to utilize these breakpoints, the error will be triggered.
  Debugging Mode: The system may not be in the correct debugging mode or the program may not be in a state where breakpoints can be hit.
  Session Issues: If there are issues with the current session or if the debugger is not properly initialized, this error can occur.
  
  Solutions:
  
  Check Breakpoints: Go to the ABAP debugger and check for any active breakpoints. You can do this by navigating to the menu: Breakpoints -> Manage Breakpoints. Remove any unnecessary breakpoints.
  Clear User Breakpoints: If you have user breakpoints set, you can clear them by using the transaction code SE80 or SE38 and executing the program with the command /h to enter debugging mode. Then, clear the breakpoints.
  Use Transaction DB01: You can also use transaction DB01 to manage and delete breakpoints. This transaction allows you to see all breakpoints set in the system and remove them as needed.
  Check Authorization: Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to use breakpoints in the current context. If you are working in a restricted environment, you may need to consult with your system administrator.
  Restart the Session: Sometimes, simply restarting the SAP GUI session can resolve temporary issues related to breakpoints.
  Check for External Tools: If you are using external debugging tools, ensure they are properly configured and that they are compatible with the current SAP version.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Debugging in SAP: Familiarize yourself with the debugging tools and techniques in SAP, including how to set and manage breakpoints effectively.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues related to debugging and breakpoints. SAP frequently updates its knowledge base with solutions to common problems.
  User Documentation: Review the SAP documentation for your specific version to understand the limitations and capabilities of the debugger.
  
  If the problem persists after trying the above solutions, consider reaching out to your SAP Basis team or SAP support for further assistance.