How To Fix UCM0151 - Database conversion may cause loss of data

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: UCM0 - Messages for Data Basis, Cons Area, ...

• Message number: 151

• Message text: Database conversion may cause loss of data

INCLUDE UGMD124 OBJECT DOKU ID NA

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 UCM0151 - Database conversion may cause loss of data ?

  The SAP error message UCM0151, which states "Database conversion may cause loss of data," typically occurs during database operations, particularly when there is a mismatch between the data types or lengths of fields in the database. This can happen during data migrations, upgrades, or when changing the database schema.
  Cause:
  
  Data Type Mismatch: The source and target database fields may have different data types or lengths. For example, if a field in the source database is defined as a VARCHAR(255) and the target is defined as VARCHAR(100), truncation may occur.
  Character Set Issues: If the character sets of the source and target databases differ, certain characters may not be represented correctly, leading to potential data loss.
  Precision Loss: Numeric fields with different precision or scale can lead to loss of data when converting from one type to another.
  Incompatible Data Formats: Date formats or other specialized data types may not convert cleanly between systems.
  
  Solution:
  
  Review Data Types: Check the definitions of the fields in both the source and target databases. Ensure that they match in terms of type and length.
  Adjust Schema: If possible, modify the target database schema to accommodate the data from the source database without loss. This may involve increasing field lengths or changing data types.
  Data Cleansing: Before migration, cleanse the data to ensure that it fits within the constraints of the target database. This may involve truncating strings or converting data types.
  Use Conversion Tools: Utilize SAP tools or third-party migration tools that can handle data type conversions more gracefully and provide options to manage potential data loss.
  Testing: Conduct thorough testing in a non-production environment to identify any potential data loss issues before performing the actual migration.
  Backup Data: Always ensure that you have a complete backup of your data before performing any operations that could lead to data loss.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes related to UCM0151 for specific guidance or patches that may address this issue.
  Documentation: Review SAP documentation on database migrations and conversions for best practices and detailed procedures.
  Community Forums: Engage with SAP community forums or support channels for insights from other users who may have encountered similar issues.
  
  By addressing the underlying causes and following the recommended solutions, you can mitigate the risk of data loss during database conversions in SAP.