Batch Data Communication (BDC) is a tool in SAP used to transfer large volumes of data from external systems into SAP, or to process bulk data within the system. BDC is primarily used for data migration, data updates, and transaction automation. It simulates manual entry of data by executing SAP transactions programmatically, ensuring compliance with the standard validation and authorization checks.
Purpose of Batch Data Communication (BDC)
BDC is utilized for:
- Data Migration: Transferring master data (e.g., customers, vendors) or transactional data (e.g., sales orders, material movements) into SAP.
- Bulk Processing: Automating repetitive tasks for large datasets.
- Integration: Enabling legacy systems or external applications to communicate with SAP.
Key Features of BDC
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Transaction Simulation | Simulates manual data entry by executing standard SAP transactions programmatically. |
| Data Validation | Ensures data integrity by applying SAP’s validation and authorization mechanisms during processing. |
| Mass Data Handling | Supports bulk processing of data, minimizing manual intervention. |
| Two Processing Modes | Allows data to be processed in online mode (foreground) or in background mode (batch). |
Types of Batch Data Communication Methods
- Call Transaction Method:
- Executes a single SAP transaction programmatically.
- Data is processed in foreground (interactive) or background (non-interactive) mode.
- Offers better performance and flexibility compared to the session method.
- Session Method:
- Creates a batch input session that is processed later in background mode.
- Stores the processing results in a session log for review and troubleshooting.
- Ensures high reliability for bulk data processing.
Process Flow of BDC
Step 1: Data Preparation
- Gather the external data to be uploaded into SAP.
- Format the data according to the fields and structure of the target SAP transaction.
Step 2: Recording (Optional)
- Use Transaction Code: SHDB to record the steps of the SAP transaction.
- The recording generates a structure (BDCDATA) that defines how the data will be mapped to the SAP fields.
Step 3: Develop BDC Program
- Write an ABAP program to process the data using either the Call Transaction or Session Method.
- Map the external data to the SAP fields based on the recording structure.
Step 4: Process the Data
- For the Call Transaction Method, the data is processed immediately.
- For the Session Method, the batch input session is created and processed using Transaction Code: SM35.
Step 5: Review Results
- Check the logs for errors or incomplete data.
- Correct and reprocess any failed records.
Example: Call Transaction Method
Below is an ABAP program that demonstrates BDC using the Call Transaction Method:
DATA: it_bdcdata TYPE TABLE OF bdcdata,
wa_bdcdata TYPE bdcdata.
"Populate BDC Data
wa_bdcdata-program = 'SAPMM03M'. "Transaction Program
wa_bdcdata-dynpro = '0101'. "Screen Number
wa_bdcdata-dynbegin = 'X'. "Start of Screen
APPEND wa_bdcdata TO it_bdcdata.
wa_bdcdata-fnam = 'MATNR'. "Field Name (Material Number)
wa_bdcdata-fval = '1000001'. "Value for Field
APPEND wa_bdcdata TO it_bdcdata.
"Call Transaction
CALL TRANSACTION 'MM03' USING it_bdcdata
MODE 'A' "Processing Mode: 'A' (Foreground), 'E' (Error Only), 'N' (Background)
UPDATE 'S'. "Update Mode: 'S' (Synchronous), 'A' (Asynchronous)
Example: Session Method
Below is an ABAP program that demonstrates BDC using the Session Method:
DATA: it_bdcdata TYPE TABLE OF bdcdata,
wa_bdcdata TYPE bdcdata.
"Populate BDC Data
wa_bdcdata-program = 'SAPMM03M'. "Transaction Program
wa_bdcdata-dynpro = '0101'. "Screen Number
wa_bdcdata-dynbegin = 'X'. "Start of Screen
APPEND wa_bdcdata TO it_bdcdata.
wa_bdcdata-fnam = 'MATNR'. "Field Name (Material Number)
wa_bdcdata-fval = '1000001'. "Value for Field
APPEND wa_bdcdata TO it_bdcdata.
"Create Batch Input Session
CALL FUNCTION 'BDC_OPEN_GROUP'
EXPORTING
client = sy-mandt
group = 'MM03_SESSION'
keep = 'X'.
CALL FUNCTION 'BDC_INSERT'
EXPORTING
tcode = 'MM03'
TABLES
dynprotab = it_bdcdata.
CALL FUNCTION 'BDC_CLOSE_GROUP'.
Process the created session using Transaction Code: SM35.
Transaction Codes for Batch Data Communication
| Transaction Code | Purpose |
|---|---|
| SHDB | Batch Input Recorder to record transactions. |
| SM35 | Process batch input sessions (Session Method). |
| SE38/SA38 | Run or test ABAP programs for BDC. |
| BD87 | Reprocess failed IDocs, often used in BDC scenarios. |
Advantages of Batch Data Communication
- Efficient Data Handling:
Processes large volumes of data quickly and reliably. - Data Validation:
Ensures data integrity by performing checks through standard SAP transactions. - Error Handling:
Logs errors in session processing, allowing users to troubleshoot and reprocess failed records. - Cost-Effective Integration:
Simplifies integration with legacy systems and eliminates the need for complex middleware solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the primary use of BDC in SAP?
BDC is used for bulk data migration, transaction automation, and integrating external data into SAP by simulating manual transaction entry programmatically.
2. What are the differences between the Call Transaction and Session methods?
- Call Transaction: Processes data immediately and is faster but has limited error handling.
- Session Method: Creates batch input sessions that can be processed later, offering better error handling and logging.
3. How do I record a transaction for BDC?
Use Transaction Code: SHDB to record the steps of the transaction. The recording generates a template for mapping external data to SAP fields.
4. Can BDC handle custom fields in transactions?
Yes, BDC can process custom fields as long as they are part of the transaction screens being executed.
5. Is BDC still relevant with newer SAP technologies?
While BDC is a legacy approach, it remains relevant for older SAP systems. However, newer technologies like BAPIs and IDocs are preferred in modern SAP environments.
Conclusion
Batch Data Communication (BDC) in SAP is a robust tool for automating data migration and bulk processing. By simulating manual transactions programmatically, it ensures data integrity and compliance with SAP’s standard validation. Although newer technologies are available, BDC remains a reliable solution for legacy systems and specific scenarios requiring transaction-based data handling. Proper configuration and understanding of BDC methods are essential for smooth data integration and process automation in SAP.