How To Fix W8516 - Combined field restriction not correct syntactically

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: W8 - Workflow: Expressions, data flow

• Message number: 516

• Message text: Combined field restriction not correct syntactically

Self-Explanatory Message

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• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message W8516 - Combined field restriction not correct syntactically ?

  Certainly! Here's a detailed explanation for the SAP error message W8516: Combined field restriction not correct syntactically:
  
  Error Message
  W8516: Combined field restriction not correct syntactically
  
  Cause
  This warning message occurs when there is a syntax error in the combined field restriction expression in SAP. Combined field restrictions are used in various SAP modules (e.g., in authorization objects, selection screens, or data selection criteria) to define complex logical conditions involving multiple fields.
  The syntax error typically arises due to:
  
  Incorrect use of logical operators (AND, OR, NOT).
  Missing or misplaced parentheses.
  Incorrect field names or values.
  Improper formatting of the combined restriction expression.
  Use of unsupported characters or keywords.
  
  
  Where It Occurs
  
  Authorization checks where combined field restrictions are defined.
  Selection criteria in reports or queries.
  Custom code or user exits where combined field restrictions are manually specified.
  Configuration of certain SAP objects that require field restrictions.
  
  
  Solution
  
  
  Check Syntax Carefully:
  
  Review the combined field restriction expression for correct logical operators.
  Ensure all parentheses are properly opened and closed.
  Verify that field names and values are correctly spelled and valid.
  Avoid unsupported characters or spaces in the expression.
  
  
  
  Use SAP Tools:
  
  Use the SAP GUI input help or syntax check tools where available.
  In authorization objects, use the standard SAP interface to define combined restrictions rather than manual input.
  
  
  
  Simplify the Expression:
  
  Break down complex combined restrictions into simpler parts.
  Test each part separately to isolate the syntax error.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Refer to SAP documentation or online help for the correct syntax of combined field restrictions.
  Check SAP Notes for any known issues related to this message.
  
  
  
  Example of Correct Syntax:
  
  (FIELD1 = 'X' AND FIELD2 = 'Y') OR (FIELD3 = 'Z')
  Ensure logical operators are uppercase and fields/values are correctly quoted if needed.
  
  
  
  
  Related Information
  
  SAP Notes: Search for SAP Notes related to message class W8 and message number 516 for any patches or clarifications.
  Authorization Objects: Combined field restrictions are often used in authorization objects (transaction SU21).
  Transaction Codes: 
  
  SU21 (Maintain Authorization Objects)
  SU24 (Maintain Authorization Defaults)
  PFCG (Role Maintenance) — where combined restrictions might be applied.
  
  
  SAP Help Portal: Look for documentation on combined field restrictions and authorization concepts.
  Debugging: If the error occurs in custom code, use the ABAP debugger to check how the combined restriction string is constructed.
  
  
  Summary
  
  
  
  Aspect
  Details
  
  
  
  
  Cause
  Syntax error in combined field restriction expression (logical operators, parentheses).
  
  
  Solution
  Correct the syntax, use proper logical operators, check parentheses, verify field names.
  
  
  Where
  Authorization objects, selection criteria, custom code, configuration screens.
  
  
  Related Info
  SAP Notes, authorization object maintenance, SAP Help Portal, ABAP debugger.
  
  
  
  
  If you provide the exact combined field restriction expression causing the error, I can help you correct the syntax specifically.