M3640 - Program terminated while deleting old production versions (update)

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: M3 - Material Master

• Message number: 640

• Message text: Program terminated while deleting old production versions (update)

What causes this issue?

The old production versions could not be deleted when the production
versions were saved.

The system issues an error message and will not allow you to continue with this transaction until the error is resolved.

System Response

How to fix this error?

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message M3640 - Program terminated while deleting old production versions (update) ?

  The SAP error message M3640, which states "Program terminated while deleting old production versions (update)," typically occurs during the process of deleting old production versions in the Material Management (MM) module. This error can arise due to various reasons, including data inconsistencies, authorization issues, or problems with the underlying program logic.
  Causes:
  
  Data Inconsistencies: There may be inconsistencies in the database that prevent the program from executing successfully.
  Authorization Issues: The user executing the deletion may not have the necessary authorizations to perform the operation.
  Program Logic Errors: There could be bugs or issues in the custom code or standard SAP program that is being executed.
  Database Locking: If the database is locked by another process, it may cause the program to terminate unexpectedly.
  Configuration Issues: Incorrect configuration settings in the production version or related master data can lead to errors during deletion.
  
  Solutions:
  
  Check Authorizations: Ensure that the user has the necessary authorizations to delete production versions. This can be done by reviewing the user's roles and permissions.
  Review Logs: Check the application logs (transaction SLG1) for more detailed error messages that can provide insights into what went wrong during the execution.
  Data Consistency Check: Use transaction codes like SE11 or SE16 to check the relevant database tables for inconsistencies. You may need to run consistency checks or repair tools if inconsistencies are found.
  Debugging: If you have access to the development environment, you can debug the program to identify the exact point of failure. This may require the assistance of a developer.
  Database Locks: Check for any database locks that might be preventing the deletion process. You can use transaction SM12 to view and manage locks.
  Consult SAP Notes: Search the SAP Support Portal for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error. There may be patches or updates available that resolve the issue.
  Contact SAP Support: If the issue persists and you cannot find a resolution, consider reaching out to SAP Support for assistance.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as MM02 (Change Material), MM03 (Display Material), and SE38 (Execute Program) for managing production versions.
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums where other users may have encountered similar issues and can provide insights or solutions.
  Documentation: Review SAP documentation related to production versions and material management for best practices and troubleshooting steps.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the M3640 error and implement a suitable solution.