Error
Error Code:
468
SAP S/4HANA Error 468: SQL Hint Malformation
Description
Error 468, ERR_SQL_HINT, signifies a problem with an SQL hint specified within a database query executed by SAP S/4HANA. This error commonly arises when custom applications or reports attempt to use database-specific hints that are either syntactically incorrect, not supported by the underlying database, or conflict with SAP's recommended practices.
Error Message
ERR_SQL_HINT
Known Causes
3 known causesInvalid SQL Hint Syntax
The SQL hint provided in the query contains a syntax error, making it unrecognizable or improperly interpreted by the database system.
Unsupported Database Hint
The specific SQL hint used is not supported by the underlying database system (e.g., SAP HANA, Oracle, SQL Server) or its current version.
Custom Code Implementation
The error originates from custom ABAP code, a custom report, or a direct SQL statement that includes manually crafted SQL with problematic or deprecated hints.
Solutions
3 solutions available1. Review and Correct SQL Hint Syntax easy
Inspect the SQL statement for incorrect syntax within the SQL hint.
1
Identify the SQL statement that is triggering the ERR_SQL_HINT error. This usually occurs when a custom SQL query or a modification to a standard SAP query is made.
2
Carefully examine the SQL hint syntax. SQL hints in SAP HANA (and by extension, S/4HANA's underlying database) have specific formatting. Common mistakes include incorrect keywords, misplaced commas, invalid parameter values, or missing parentheses.
Example of a potentially malformed hint:
--+ HINT(table_name INDEX(column_name))
Corrected example:
--+ HINT(table_name INDEX(column_name) OPTIMIZER 'HINT_NAME')
Always refer to SAP HANA SQL reference documentation for the correct syntax of specific hints.3
If the hint is within a custom ABAP program or CDS view, modify the source code to correct the syntax. If it's a database-level hint, you might need to use database administration tools.
4
Re-execute the query after correction to verify the error is resolved.
2. Remove or Disable Problematic SQL Hints easy
Temporarily disable or permanently remove SQL hints that are causing the error.
1
Locate the SQL statement containing the erroneous hint. This might be in ABAP code, CDS views, or direct SQL access scenarios.
2
Comment out or remove the entire SQL hint line. This is a quick way to bypass the error and allow the query to execute without the hint.
-- This is a commented-out hint
--+ HINT(table_name INDEX(column_name))
SELECT * FROM your_table;3
If the hint was part of a custom development, make the change in the development environment and transport it.
4
If the hint is in a standard SAP object (which is highly discouraged and risky), consider if it's truly necessary or if there's an alternative SAP-provided solution. If it's a temporary workaround for a known issue, document it and plan for its removal.
5
Test the query execution after removing the hint.
3. Consult SAP Notes and Documentation for Specific Hints medium
Research the specific SQL hint causing the error in SAP Notes and HANA documentation.
1
Identify the exact SQL hint keyword and its parameters that are causing the ERR_SQL_HINT. The error message might provide more context.
2
Search the SAP Support Portal (SAP Notes) for the error code (468) and the specific hint name or keywords involved. SAP often publishes notes detailing issues with certain hints or providing guidance on their correct usage.
3
Refer to the SAP HANA SQL Reference Guide for the specific version of HANA your S/4HANA system is running on. This documentation will provide the definitive syntax and valid options for all supported SQL hints.
4
If the hint is related to a specific SAP functionality or business process, check for relevant SAP Notes that describe performance tuning recommendations or known issues.
5
Apply any recommended corrections or updates found in SAP Notes. This might involve modifying the hint syntax, updating the SAP system, or applying specific database configurations.