How To Fix TW141 - Delta backup is not possible because no complete backup was made

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: TW - R3trans - Messages

• Message number: 141

• Message text: Delta backup is not possible because no complete backup was made

What causes this issue?

A Delta backup is not possible, as at least one complete backup must be
successfully performed beforehand.

System Response

A complete backup is automatically performed (instead of a Delta
backup).

How to fix this error?

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 TW141 - Delta backup is not possible because no complete backup was made ?

  The SAP error message TW141 indicates that a delta backup cannot be performed because there is no complete backup available. This situation typically arises in the context of database backups in SAP systems, particularly when using the SAP database management tools.
  Cause:
  
  No Complete Backup: The primary cause of this error is that a complete backup of the database has not been performed. Delta backups rely on a complete backup as a baseline to capture only the changes made since that complete backup.
  Backup Chain Issues: If the backup chain is broken (for example, if a complete backup was deleted or not performed correctly), the system will not allow delta backups.
  Configuration Issues: There may be misconfigurations in the backup settings or the backup strategy that prevent the system from recognizing a complete backup.
  
  Solution:
  
  Perform a Complete Backup: The most straightforward solution is to perform a complete backup of the database. Once a complete backup is successfully completed, you should be able to perform delta backups without encountering this error.
  Check Backup Status: Verify the status of your backups using the SAP transaction codes related to backup management (e.g., DB13 for database backups). Ensure that a complete backup exists and is valid.
  Review Backup Configuration: Check the configuration settings for your backup strategy in the SAP system. Ensure that the settings are correct and that the system is configured to perform complete backups regularly.
  Consult Logs: Review the backup logs for any errors or warnings that may indicate why a complete backup was not created. This can provide insights into any underlying issues that need to be addressed.
  Database Administration: If you are using a specific database (like Oracle, HANA, etc.), consult the database documentation for any specific commands or procedures that may be required to ensure proper backup operations.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Backup Types: Understand the different types of backups (complete, incremental, delta) and how they relate to each other.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to backup operations. SAP Notes can provide additional guidance or solutions for specific scenarios.
  Documentation: Refer to the SAP documentation for your specific database and SAP version for detailed instructions on backup and recovery procedures.
  Support: If the issue persists after trying the above solutions, consider reaching out to SAP support for further assistance.
  
  By addressing the root cause of the error and ensuring that a complete backup is available, you should be able to resolve the TW141 error and successfully perform delta backups.