How To Fix WRF_CHAR_VAL044 - Only characteristics with type "character format" are supported

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: WRF_CHAR_VAL - Messages for Package WRF_CHARACTERISTIC_VALUE_GRP

• Message number: 044

• Message text: Only characteristics with type "character format" are supported

Self-Explanatory Message

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• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message WRF_CHAR_VAL044 - Only characteristics with type "character format" are supported ?

  SAP Error Message:
  
  WRF_CHAR_VAL044 Only characteristics with type "character format" are supported
  
  Cause:
  This error occurs in SAP when you try to assign or use a characteristic in a context where only characteristics of the character data type (i.e., characteristics defined with a character format) are allowed, but the characteristic involved is of a different data type (e.g., numeric, date, or other non-character types).
  Common scenarios include:
  
  Using a characteristic in a classification or variant configuration where only character-type characteristics are supported.
  Attempting to assign values or use characteristics in a function module, BAdI, or configuration step that expects only character-type characteristics.
  Invariant or variant configuration where the system expects characteristics with character format but encounters numeric or other types.
  
  
  Explanation:
  
  Characteristics in SAP classification and variant configuration can have different data types: character, numeric, date, etc.
  Some functions, validations, or assignments are designed to work only with characteristics of type character because they handle values as strings.
  If a characteristic of type numeric or other non-character type is used in such a context, the system throws this error.
  
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check the characteristic data type:
  
  Go to transaction CT04 (Characteristic maintenance).
  Enter the characteristic name and check the Data Type field.
  Confirm if it is of type character (CHAR).
  
  
  
  If the characteristic is not of character type:
  
  Consider changing the characteristic's data type to character if business logic allows.
  If changing the data type is not possible (due to existing data or business rules), then:
  
  Use a different characteristic that is of character type.
  Adjust the configuration or code logic to handle the characteristic according to its data type.
  Avoid using this characteristic in contexts that require character-type characteristics.
  
  
  
  
  
  Review the process or code where the error occurs:
  
  Identify where the characteristic is being used.
  Ensure that only characteristics with character format are passed or processed.
  Modify the logic to handle different data types appropriately.
  
  
  
  If this error occurs during variant configuration or classification:
  
  Check the configuration profiles or class assignments.
  Make sure that only character-type characteristics are assigned where required.
  
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes:
  
  CT04 - Maintain Characteristics
  CL02 - Change Class (to check assigned characteristics)
  CU50 - Variant Configuration: Characteristics
  
  
  SAP Notes and Documentation:
  
  Search SAP OSS Notes for WRF_CHAR_VAL044 for any specific patches or updates.
  
  
  Typical Use Cases:
  
  Variant Configuration (LO-VC)
  Classification (CL)
  Custom developments involving characteristics
  
  
  Data Types in Characteristics:
  
  Character (CHAR)
  Numeric (NUM)
  Date (DATE)
  Time (TIME)
  Currency (CURR)
  Quantity (QUAN)
  
  
  
  
  Summary:
  The error WRF_CHAR_VAL044 indicates a mismatch between expected and actual characteristic data types. The system expects a characteristic of type character, but a different type was provided. The solution is to ensure that only characteristics with character format are used in the relevant context, either by changing the characteristic's data type or adjusting the process logic.
  
  If you provide the exact context or transaction where this error occurs, I can help with more tailored advice.