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Description

Error 266, ERR_SQL_INCNST_DATATYPE, indicates a mismatch between the expected data type and the actual data type during a database operation in SAP S/4HANA. This typically occurs when data being processed or stored does not conform to the defined data type of a field or column.

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Error Message

ERR_SQL_INCNST_DATATYPE

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Known Causes

3 known causes

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Incorrect Data Input

A user or an automated process attempts to insert or update data with a type that does not match the target field's definition (e.g., entering text into a numeric field).

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Interface Data Type Mismatch

Data exchange between SAP S/4HANA and an external system or another module involves fields with incompatible data type definitions.

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Custom Development Error

A custom report, program, or enhancement attempts a database operation with incorrect data type handling, leading to a conflict.

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Solutions

3 solutions available

1. Identify and Correct Inconsistent Data Types in Custom ABAP Code advanced

This solution focuses on resolving datatype mismatches introduced by custom developments.

1

Analyze the ABAP program that triggers the error. Use the ABAP Runtime Analysis (SE30/SAT) or the ABAP Debugger to pinpoint the exact statement causing the ERR_SQL_INCNST_DATATYPE. Look for assignments or comparisons between fields with different underlying data types.

2

Examine the data dictionary definitions (SE11) of the involved tables or structures. Verify the data types, lengths, and conversion rules for the fields being used. Pay close attention to character types (CHAR, VARCHAR), numeric types (INT, DEC, FLTP), date/time types, and LCHR/LRAW fields.

3

If a mismatch is found, modify the ABAP code to ensure data type compatibility. This might involve explicit type casting using `CAST` or `CONV`, or ensuring that the source and target fields have compatible definitions. For example, if comparing a character field to a numeric field, convert the character to a numeric representation before comparison.

DATA: lv_char TYPE c LENGTH 10 VALUE '123',
      lv_num  TYPE i.

* Incorrect assignment causing inconsistency
* lv_num = lv_char.

* Corrected assignment with type conversion
TRY.
    lv_num = CONV i( lv_char ).
  CATCH cx_sy_conversion_error.
    " Handle conversion error if necessary
ENDTRY.

4

If the inconsistency is due to a direct assignment of a character-like field to a numeric field without proper conversion, implement explicit type conversions. For example, use `CONV` or `CAST` in ABAP to ensure the data is correctly transformed before being passed to the database.

DATA: lv_input_string TYPE string VALUE '456',
      lv_output_int   TYPE i.

lv_output_int = CONV i( lv_input_string ).

5

If the error occurs during a database operation (e.g., INSERT, UPDATE, SELECT) involving a complex data type or a user-defined type, ensure that the ABAP runtime correctly handles the conversion to the underlying SQL data type. This might involve reviewing the ABAP data dictionary and how it maps to the database schema.

2. Address Data Type Mismatches in Standard SAP Objects (Rare Cases) medium

This solution covers situations where standard SAP objects might exhibit datatype inconsistencies, often due to incorrect system configuration or patches.

1

Consult SAP Notes related to ERR_SQL_INCNST_DATATYPE for your specific S/4HANA version and component. SAP often releases corrections for such issues.

2

If a relevant SAP Note is found, meticulously follow the instructions for applying the correction. This might involve importing Support Packages, applying manual corrections via SNOTE, or performing specific configuration adjustments.

3

If the error occurs during a standard SAP transaction or report, try to replicate the issue in a non-production environment and perform a system trace (ST05). Analyze the trace to identify the specific database operation and involved tables/fields.

4

If the issue persists and is suspected to be in standard code, consider opening a ticket with SAP Support, providing all relevant trace files, system information, and steps to reproduce the error.

3. Validate Data Type Compatibility with External Integrations medium

This solution addresses datatype issues arising from interfaces or data exchange with external systems.

1

Review the data mapping and transformation logic for any interfaces connecting S/4HANA to external systems (e.g., RFC, IDoc, OData, APIs). Ensure that the data types in S/4HANA align with the expected data types of the external system.

2

If using middleware (e.g., SAP Cloud Platform Integration, SAP Process Orchestration), examine the message mappings and transformations. Verify that data type conversions are correctly configured and that no implicit conversions are leading to inconsistencies.

3

For OData services, check the metadata and the data type definitions of the entities exposed. Ensure consistency with the data types of the underlying S/4HANA entities.

4

If the error occurs during data import (e.g., using LTMC or custom programs), validate the source data file. Ensure that the data in the file matches the expected data types and formats for the target S/4HANA fields.

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Related Errors

5 related errors

SAP S/4HANA Error 266: Inconsistent Datatype Issue