You define exceptions for a method when you want to "publicize" error situations in a standardized manner in order to give the caller of the method the opportunity to react to the error situations.

To define exceptions for a method, position the cursor on the method and select Exceptions. The existing exceptions for the method are displayed and you select to create a new exception.

Give the exception an identifying number in the dialog box Add Exceptions, which is used to address it in the implementation program. The following number ranges apply:

• 0001-1000: Exceptions defined for interfaces
• 1001-7999: Application-specific exceptions, reserved for SAP development
• 8000-8999: Exceptions triggered by the object manager
• 9000-9999: Customer-defined exceptions, reserved for customers

Exceptions are classified according to error types.

• Temporary error: This error type indicates that certain system resources are not available at the moment, and that it is advisable to call the method again at a later point in time. Temporary errors can also occur if the method is temporarily locked by another user for processing.
• Application error: This error type is caused within the application called in the method. A table that cannot be maintained or a document that does not exist are typical application errors.
• System error: This error type shows incorrect configuration of the object manager or an inconsistency between object type definition and method call. Missing mandatory method parameters when calling a method are an example of a system error.

Specify the class and number of the message to be displayed if the exception occurs.

You must specify when the exceptions are triggered in the implementation program.