Overview of ABAP Dictionary

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Objectives

• The participants will be able to:– Define the ABAP dictionary – Describe the functions of the ABAP Dictionary– Describe the basic objects of the ABAP Dictionary– Explain how the Database Utility interfaces with

the ABAP Dictionary and the underlying database

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What is a Data Dictionary?

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DataDictionary

A data dictionary is a centralized storage location for information about the data that is stored in a database.

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No Redundant Data Definitions

Integration with the ABAPWorkbench

DataDictionary

Data Integrity

Functions of the ABAP Dictionary

Data Integrity

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Ensuring that data entered into the system is logical, complete, and consistent.

No Redundant Data Definitions

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Linking similar information to the same data definition.

Integration with the ABAP Workbench

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DataDictionary

Automatic recognition of the names and characteristics of dictionary objects by the ABAP programs

Easy navigation between development objects and dictionary definitions

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DomainDomainDomainDomain

Table CTable BTable A

Data Element 2Data Element 2Data Element 1Data Element 1

Tables store the information that is in the database Data elements and domains are used to describe the characteristics of fields.

Basic Objects of the ABAP Dictionary

Database Utility

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DataDictionary

DatabaseUtility

DatabaseDatabase

The database utility provides the interface between the ABAP Dictionary and the underlying database management system (DBMS).

Demonstration

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Execution of transaction SE11 and observation of the various data dictionary objects.

Practice

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Execution of transaction SE11 and observation of the various data dictionary objects.

Summary

• SAP’s data dictionary is called the ABAP Dictionary.• The ABAP Dictionary enforces data integrity, manages

data definitions without redundancy and is tightly integrated with the rest of the ABAP Workbench

• The basic objects of the ABAP Dictionary are tables, data elementsand domains.

• The database utility provides the interface between the ABAP Dictionary and the underlying database management system (DBMS).

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Questions

• What are the functions of the ABAP Dictionary ?

• What are the basic objects of the ABAP Dictionary ?

• What is the database utility ?

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