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How To Fix W_CB047 - Chain &1 does not exist. Create one first or select an existing one


SAP Error Message - Details

  • Message type: E = Error

  • Message class: W_CB -

  • Message number: 047

  • Message text: Chain &1 does not exist. Create one first or select an existing one

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  • Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

  • What is the cause and solution for SAP error message W_CB047 - Chain &1 does not exist. Create one first or select an existing one ?

    The SAP error message:

    W_CB047 Chain &1 does not exist. Create one first or select an existing one

    typically occurs in the context of Change Management (CM) or Engineering Change Management (ECM) processes, where a "chain" refers to a sequence or group of change documents or tasks linked together.


    Cause

    • The system is expecting a Change Document Chain (or simply "chain") with the identifier provided (represented by &1 in the message), but it cannot find it in the database.
    • This usually happens when:
      • You try to reference or assign a chain that has not been created yet.
      • You enter a chain number manually that does not exist.
      • The chain was deleted or not properly saved.
      • There is a mismatch or error in the process flow where the chain should have been created before being used.

    Solution

    1. Create the Chain First:

      • Before referencing a chain, ensure that it exists.
      • Use the appropriate transaction or process to create a new chain.
      • For example, in Engineering Change Management, you might create a chain via transaction CC01 (Create Change Document) or through the relevant change management interface.
    2. Select an Existing Chain:

      • Instead of entering a non-existent chain number, use the search help (F4) to select an existing chain.
      • This ensures you are referencing a valid chain.
    3. Check Process Flow:

      • Verify that the process steps are followed correctly.
      • The chain should be created before it is referenced in subsequent steps.
    4. Check Authorizations:

      • Sometimes, the chain exists but the user does not have authorization to view or use it.
      • Verify user roles and authorizations related to change management.
    5. Data Consistency:

      • If the chain was deleted or corrupted, you may need to recreate it or restore from backup.
      • Check for any inconsistencies in the change management tables (e.g., JEST, JCDS).

    Related Information

    • Transactions:

      • CC01 - Create Change Document
      • CC02 - Change Change Document
      • CC03 - Display Change Document
      • CC04 - Create Change Document Chain
      • CC05 - Display Change Document Chain
    • Tables:

      • JCDS - Change Document Header
      • JCDS_CHAIN - Change Document Chain
      • JEST - Object Status
    • Notes and Documentation:

      • SAP Help Portal on Engineering Change Management
      • SAP OSS Notes related to change management chains (search for W_CB047 or chain-related errors)
    • Common Scenarios:

      • When creating a change request or task, the system requires a valid chain to link the documents.
      • If you are integrating with other modules (e.g., PM, MM), ensure the chain is created before referencing it in those modules.

    Summary

    Aspect Details
    Cause Chain number does not exist or not created before use.
    Solution Create the chain first or select an existing one using search help.
    Related Transactions CC01, CC04; Tables JCDS, JCDS_CHAIN; Check authorizations and process flow.

    If you provide the exact transaction or scenario where this error occurs, I can give more tailored advice.

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