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Transaction SHDB in BDC (Batch Data Communication) - Step by Step Help

Updated Dec 03, 2024

Batch Data Communication (BDC) is a robust method in SAP systems to transfer data from external or legacy systems into SAP. SAP provides various tools and methods for data migration, among which SHDB (Transaction Recorder) is a powerful tool for automating and recording transactions.

In this article, we will learn how to use the t-code SHDB to create and run a Batch Input program efficiently.

Steps to Use SHDB for Batch Data Communication (BDC)

Step 1: Create a BDC Recording

  • Execute t-code SHDB in the SAP Command field.
  • Record a transaction by entering the required data fields.
  • Save the recording once complete.

Step 2: Create a ZProgram from the Recording

  • Use the t-code SHDB recording to generate a custom program (ZProgram) that replicates the recorded transaction.
  • Ensure that the program uses the same screen sequence and field names recorded in SHDB.

Step 3: Upload the Legacy Data

  • Use the GUI_UPLOAD function module to upload data from an external file into an internal table in the SAP program.

Step 4: Process Data in a Loop

  • Iterate through the internal table containing the legacy data.
  • Replace the static values in the SHDB recording with dynamic values from the internal table.

Step 5: Execute the Program

  • Activate and run the ZProgram to transfer data into the SAP system.
  • Ensure the program handles errors gracefully, as described in the error handling section below.

Overview of Batch Data Communication (BDC)

Batch Input, also known as Batch Data Communication (BDC), allows for data migration from non-SAP systems or legacy systems into SAP. The three primary methods for data transfer in BDC are:

  1. Session Method
  2. Call Transaction Method
  3. Direct Input Method

Advantages of BDC

  • Handles large volumes of data.
  • Operates in the background without manual intervention.
  • Ensures data integrity by adhering to all standard validations and checks.

Pre-requirements for Writing a BDC Program

In order to create a BDC Data Transfer Program, the user require following:

  1. Analyze Transaction Requirements

    • Identify the transaction code, mandatory fields, default values, and screen structure.
    • Use the SAP GUI to gather technical details like program names, screen numbers, and field names.
  2. Prepare Data

    • Extract data from external files in a format compatible with SAP internal tables.
  3. Understand BDCDATA Structure

    • The BDCDATA structure contains screen-specific details such as program name, screen number, and field values.

Methods of BDC

1. Session Method

This is a two-step process:

  1. Data is uploaded into a session (temporary storage).
  2. The session is processed to transfer data to the database.

Advantages of Session Method

  • Logs all errors for review.
  • Processes data in batches for large-volume transfers.

Key Function Modules

  • BDC_OPEN_GROUP: Opens a session for data transfer.
  • BDC_INSERT: Adds transaction data to the session.
  • BDC_CLOSE_GROUP: Closes the session after data transfer.

2. Call Transaction Method

This method processes data immediately by calling a transaction directly.

Advantages of Call Transaction Method

  • Faster than the Session Method as it bypasses the session queue.
  • Offers flexibility with different execution modes:
    • A: All screens are displayed.
    • N: No screens are displayed.
    • E: Only error screens are displayed.

Key Steps

  1. Populate an internal table (BDCTAB) with transaction data.
  2. Use CALL TRANSACTION USING to process the data directly.

Error Handling in Call Transaction

  • Use BDCMSGCOLL to capture errors and warnings during transaction execution.
  • Display error messages using the FORMAT_MESSAGE function.

Key Differences Between Session and Call Transaction Methods

Aspect Session Method Call Transaction Method
Data Update Batch update via session processing. Immediate update during execution.
Error Logging Automatic error log creation. Explicit error handling is required.
Performance Slower due to session creation. Faster for smaller datasets.
Flexibility Suitable for large data volumes. Ideal for real-time processing.

Conclusion

Using t-code SHDB simplifies the creation of BDC programs by recording transactions and generating reusable code. With a proper understanding of BDC methods, error handling, and the BDCDATA structure, you can implement robust data migration solutions in SAP systems.

This tutorial will help you use t-code SHDB efficiently for data migration and batch input recording, guaranteeing a seamless transfer of historical data into your SAP environment.


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