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How To Fix W8602 - The maximum length supported for character strings here is &1 characters


SAP Error Message - Details

  • Message type: E = Error

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

  • Message number: 602

  • Message text: The maximum length supported for character strings here is &1 characters

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  • Self-Explanatory Message

    Since SAP believes that this specific error message is 'self-explanatory,' no more information has been given.The majority of messages in the SAP system have a message text, however this is frequently insufficient to comprehend or resolve the problem.

    To make things easier, more detailed information is frequently added to describe the issue, how to fix it, and the necessary steps or configuration modifications.

    Unfortunately, there isn't any extra information in this error notice.



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Smart SAP Assistant

  • What is the cause and solution for SAP error message W8602 - The maximum length supported for character strings here is &1 characters ?

    SAP Error Message:
    W8602The maximum length supported for character strings here is &1 characters


    Cause:

    This warning message occurs when you try to define or use a character string (e.g., a literal, variable, or field) that exceeds the maximum allowed length in a particular context within ABAP or SAP Dictionary objects.

    For example:

    • Defining a string literal longer than the allowed length in a statement.
    • Using a data element or variable with a length exceeding the maximum supported length in a certain operation or statement.
    • Defining a constant or text string that is too long for the context.

    The placeholder &1 in the message will be replaced by the maximum number of characters allowed in that context.


    Explanation:

    SAP ABAP and related tools have limits on the length of character strings depending on where and how they are used. These limits are imposed to ensure performance, memory management, and compatibility with underlying database or system constraints.

    For example:

    • In ABAP source code, string literals may have a maximum length (e.g., 255 characters).
    • In certain statements or function modules, the maximum length of input strings is limited.
    • In SAP Dictionary, data elements or fields have maximum lengths depending on their data type.

    Solution:

    1. Reduce the length of the string:
      Shorten the character string to be within the allowed maximum length.

    2. Split the string:
      If you need to handle a longer string, split it into multiple smaller strings or variables.

    3. Use appropriate data types:
      If you are defining variables or fields, use data types that support longer strings, such as STRING (which is variable length) instead of fixed-length C type fields.

    4. Check context-specific limits:
      Review the documentation or SAP notes for the specific context where the error occurs to understand the exact length limits.

    5. Use text symbols or text elements:
      For long texts, consider using text symbols or text elements instead of hard-coded literals.


    Related Information:

    • ABAP Data Types:

      • C (Character) type fields have a fixed length (up to 65535 in some contexts, but often limited to 255 in source code literals).
      • STRING type supports variable length strings and can hold longer texts.
    • SAP Notes and Documentation:
      Check SAP Notes or the official ABAP documentation for limits on string lengths in specific statements or function modules.

    • Example:
      If you try to write:

      DATA lv_text TYPE c LENGTH 300.
      lv_text = '...a string longer than 255 characters...'.

      You might get this warning if the context only supports 255 characters.


    Summary:

    • Cause: Attempt to use a character string longer than the maximum allowed length in a given context.
    • Solution: Shorten the string, split it, or use appropriate data types like STRING.
    • Check: The exact maximum length allowed (&1 in the message) and adjust accordingly.

    If you provide the exact context or code snippet where this error occurs, I can help with a more specific solution.

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