How To Fix VK861 - System error: maximum number of tables (&) reached

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: VK - Pflege und Bearbeitung von Konditionen

• Message number: 861

• Message text: System error: maximum number of tables (&) reached

What causes this issue?

The system could not determine a table number.

System Response

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?

There could be several reasons why the system cannot determine a table
number:
1. All table numbers are assigned.
2. Cross-Application Customizing is not allowed.

Procedure for System Administrators

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message VK861 - System error: maximum number of tables (&) reached ?

  The SAP error message VK861, which states "System error: maximum number of tables (&) reached," typically occurs when the system has hit a limit on the number of database tables that can be accessed or processed in a single transaction or operation. This can happen in various contexts, such as during pricing calculations, data retrieval, or when executing certain transactions.
  Cause:
  
  Database Limitations: Each SAP system has a limit on the number of tables that can be joined or accessed in a single query or transaction. This limit is often set to optimize performance and resource usage.
  Complex Queries: If a transaction or report involves complex queries that join many tables, it can exceed the maximum allowed number of tables.
  Configuration Issues: Sometimes, the configuration of the SAP system or the specific transaction can lead to excessive table joins or accesses.
  
  Solution:
  
  Simplify Queries: Review the transaction or report that is causing the error. Try to simplify the query by reducing the number of tables involved. This may involve breaking down the query into smaller parts or using temporary tables.
  Check Custom Code: If there is custom ABAP code involved, review it for any unnecessary joins or accesses to multiple tables. Optimize the code to reduce the number of tables being accessed.
  Adjust Configuration: Consult with your SAP Basis or technical team to see if there are any configuration settings that can be adjusted to increase the limit, although this is not always recommended due to potential performance impacts.
  Use Alternative Approaches: If the operation can be performed in a different way (e.g., using different transaction codes or reports), consider using those alternatives.
  Consult SAP Notes: Check the SAP Support Portal for any relevant SAP Notes or updates that may address this issue. There may be patches or updates that can help resolve the problem.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Documentation: Review the official SAP documentation for your specific version to understand the limitations and best practices regarding database access and performance.
  Performance Monitoring: Use transaction codes like ST22 (Dump Analysis) and SM21 (System Log) to monitor for any related issues or performance bottlenecks that may be contributing to the error.
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums to see if other users have encountered similar issues and what solutions they have found effective.
  
  If the problem persists after trying the above solutions, it may be necessary to engage SAP support for further assistance.