Error
Error Code:
17
SAP S/4HANA Error 17: Metadata Schema Version Mismatch
Description
This error indicates a critical discrepancy between the metadata schema version stored in your SAP S/4HANA database and the version expected by the application's executable files. It typically occurs after system updates, patches, or component deployments if synchronization is incomplete, preventing the system from operating correctly.
Error Message
ERR_CATA_VER_MISMATCH: Metadata schema version incompatible between database and executable file
Known Causes
3 known causesIncomplete System Update
Patches or upgrades were applied to the database but not fully to the application layer, or vice-versa, leading to a mismatch in expected metadata schema versions.
Partial Component Deployment
In complex or distributed SAP S/4HANA landscapes, different versions of application components or related services might have been deployed inconsistently.
Unsanctioned Schema Modification
Direct, unsupported manual changes were made to the database schema, causing it to deviate from the application's expected metadata structure.
Solutions
3 solutions available1. Synchronize SAP HANA Database and Application Components medium
Ensures that the SAP HANA database metadata aligns with the installed SAP S/4HANA application components.
1
Identify the SAP S/4HANA Support Package Stack (SPS) level of your application and the corresponding SAP HANA database version and SPS level. You can find this information in SAP Notes, SAP Support Portal, or through SAP system transaction codes like SPAM/SAINT for application and HANA Studio/Cockpit for the database.
2
Consult SAP Note 2347967 ('SAP S/4HANA - SAP HANA Database and SAP S/4HANA Support Package Stack compatibility') for the definitive compatibility matrix between SAP S/4HANA SPS levels and SAP HANA database versions/SPS levels. This is crucial for ensuring correct alignment.
3
If a mismatch is confirmed, the primary solution is to upgrade either the SAP HANA database or the SAP S/4HANA application components to a compatible level. This typically involves a planned maintenance activity.
4
For SAP HANA database upgrades, use the SAP Software Update Manager (SUM) tool. For SAP S/4HANA application upgrades, also use SUM. Follow the specific guides provided by SAP for these upgrade processes.
5
After the upgrade, verify the versions of both the database and the application components to confirm they are now compatible. Re-run any affected transactions or reports to ensure the error is resolved.
2. Apply SAP Notes for Specific Metadata Fixes easy
Applies specific SAP Notes that address known metadata version mismatches for your current versions.
1
Search the SAP Support Portal for SAP Notes related to 'ERR_CATA_VER_MISMATCH' or 'Metadata schema version incompatible' in conjunction with your specific SAP S/4HANA version and SAP HANA database version.
2
Carefully review the SAP Notes found. Prioritize notes that are marked as 'Recommended' or 'Correction Instructions available'. Pay close attention to the prerequisites and the affected components.
3
Implement the correction instructions provided in the SAP Note. This usually involves using the SAP Note Assistant (transaction SNOTE) in your SAP system. Ensure you have the necessary authorizations.
4
After implementing the SAP Note, restart the affected SAP S/4HANA application services or the entire SAP system if required by the note. Then, test to see if the error is resolved.
3. Rebuild or Recreate Inconsistent Metadata Objects advanced
Addresses issues where specific metadata objects within the HANA database have become corrupted or out of sync.
1
Identify the specific metadata object causing the mismatch. This might require advanced debugging or analysis of SAP HANA traces. Consult SAP Support if you cannot pinpoint the object.
2
If the object is a generated view or procedure, attempt to regenerate it. For example, if it's a SQL view, you might be able to drop and recreate it using the SQL DDL from the application's source code or configuration.
3
For more complex metadata, such as table definitions or system objects, you may need to use SAP HANA administration tools or specific SQL commands to check and potentially repair the object's schema version information. This is highly dependent on the object type and requires deep knowledge of HANA internals.
4
Example: If you suspect an issue with a specific generated view, you might try: `DROP VIEW "SCHEMA_NAME"."VIEW_NAME";` followed by the SQL command to recreate the view, ensuring it's generated with the correct version information. **Caution: This is a highly sensitive operation and should only be performed after thorough analysis and with SAP support if unsure.**
5
After any manual intervention on metadata objects, restart the relevant SAP application services and test thoroughly.