How To Fix WL149 - Function only allowed for data type CHAR (not for data type &)

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: WL - Workflow: run-time messages

• Message number: 149

• Message text: Function only allowed for data type CHAR (not for data type &)

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message WL149 - Function only allowed for data type CHAR (not for data type &) ?

  The SAP error message WL149 indicates that a function or operation is being attempted on a data type that is not compatible with the expected data type. Specifically, this error occurs when a function is only allowed for the CHAR (character) data type, but it is being applied to a different data type (denoted by & in the error message).
  Cause:
  
  Data Type Mismatch: The most common cause of this error is that the function you are trying to use is designed to work with character strings (CHAR) but is being applied to a different data type, such as numeric (NUMC), date (DATS), or any other non-character type.
  Incorrect Variable Declaration: The variable or field you are using in your function call may not be declared as a CHAR type, leading to this error.
  Function Module or Method Limitations: Some function modules or methods in SAP are specifically designed to handle only CHAR data types, and using them with other types will trigger this error.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Data Types: Review the data types of the variables or fields you are using in your function call. Ensure that they are declared as CHAR if the function requires it.
  Convert Data Types: If you need to use a non-CHAR data type, consider converting it to CHAR before passing it to the function. You can use the CONCATENATE statement or other conversion functions to achieve this.
  DATA: lv_char TYPE char20.
  lv_char = CONDENSE( your_non_char_variable ).
  
  Use Appropriate Functions: If the function you are trying to use is not compatible with the data type you have, look for alternative functions that can handle the data type you are working with.
  Debugging: If you are unsure where the error is occurring, use the debugger to step through your code and identify the exact line that triggers the error. This will help you pinpoint the variable or function causing the issue.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Documentation: Refer to the SAP documentation for the specific function module or method you are using to understand its requirements and limitations regarding data types.
  ABAP Data Types: Familiarize yourself with the different data types in ABAP (e.g., CHAR, NUMC, DATS, TIMS) and their characteristics to avoid similar issues in the future.
  Error Handling: Implement error handling in your code to gracefully manage situations where data type mismatches may occur.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the WL149 error and ensure that your code functions as intended.