How To Fix UGMD124 - Database conversion may cause loss of data

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: UGMD - FIN Master Data: Messages

• Message number: 124

• Message text: Database conversion may cause loss of data

What causes this issue?

New database tables have been generated for characteristic &V1&. This
regeneration substitutes table &V2& with table &V3&. However, there may
be circumstances in which the data of table <DS:TRAS.SE11>&V2&</> cannot
be copied to table <DS:TRAS.SE11>&V3&</> without losses.
For example, this may be the case when you shorten the length of
existing fields or when you change a field type from C (characters) to
NUMC (numeric). Deleting an existing compound of characteristics can
also cause such a situation.

System Response

Processing has been interrupted. The generation of the new table
structure has not yet begun.

How to fix this error?

Decide whether you really want to keep the changes. This is normally
only advisable if (1) no data has been posted yet, or (2) only test data
has been posted.
If you want to undo the changes that have been triggered by this
message, you can do this in the definitions of the affected InfoObjects.

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 UGMD124 - Database conversion may cause loss of data ?

  The SAP error message UGMD124, 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 schema. This can happen during upgrades, migrations, or when changing the database structure.
  Cause:
  
  Data Type Mismatch: The data type of a field in the source database may not be compatible with the target database. For example, converting a VARCHAR field to a CHAR field may lead to truncation of data if the lengths differ.
  Field Length Differences: If the length of a field in the source database is greater than that in the target database, data may be lost during the conversion.
  Incompatible Data Formats: Certain data formats may not be supported in the target database, leading to potential data loss.
  Database Version Differences: Upgrading from an older version of the database to a newer version may introduce changes in data types or structures that could lead to data loss.
  
  Solution:
  
  Review Data Types: Check the data types and lengths of the fields in both the source and target databases. Ensure that they are compatible and that there is no risk of truncation or loss of data.
  Adjust Field Lengths: If possible, increase the length of the target fields to accommodate the data from the source fields.
  Data Migration Strategy: Implement a data migration strategy that includes data validation and transformation to ensure that data integrity is maintained during the conversion process.
  Backup Data: Always back up your data before performing any database conversion or migration. This ensures that you can restore the original data if something goes wrong.
  Testing: Conduct thorough testing in a non-production environment to identify potential issues before performing the actual migration.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation and notes related to database conversions for specific guidance and best practices.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes related to UGMD124 for any specific recommendations or patches that may address the issue.
  Database Documentation: Review the documentation for the specific database you are using (e.g., HANA, Oracle, SQL Server) for guidelines on data type conversions and limitations.
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums to see if other users have encountered similar issues and what solutions they have implemented.
  
  By following these steps, you can mitigate the risk of data loss during database conversions and ensure a smoother transition.