What is pass by reference in SAP BC-ABA - ABAP Runtime Environment?

SAP Term: pass by reference

• Component: BC-ABA

• Component Name: ABAP Runtime Environment

• Description: Type of data transfer that is defined in the parameter interface of a procedure for converting actual parameters to formal parameters when calling the procedure. When references are transferred, no local data object is created for the actual parameter, but rather when the procedure is called, it is assigned a reference to the actual parameter and works with the actual parameter itself. Input parameters transferred with the reference cannot be changed in the procedure. See also, value transfer.

Smart SAP Assistant

• Key Concepts: 
  Pass by reference is a programming technique used in the ABAP Runtime Environment of SAP. It allows a program to pass a reference to an object or data structure instead of copying the entire object or data structure. This technique is used to reduce memory usage and improve performance. 
  
  How to use it: 
  In order to use pass by reference, the program must first create a reference variable. This variable will point to the object or data structure that needs to be passed. The program can then pass this reference variable as an argument in a function call. The function will then be able to access the object or data structure without having to copy it. 
  
  Tips & Tricks: 
  When using pass by reference, it is important to remember that any changes made to the object or data structure will be reflected in all references pointing to it. Therefore, it is important to ensure that any changes made are intentional and do not cause unexpected behavior. 
  
  Related Information: 
  For more information on pass by reference, please refer to the SAP Help Portal documentation on ABAP Runtime Environment (https://help.sap.com/viewer/product/ABAP_RUNTIME_ENVIRONMENT/7.50/en-US).