A batch input session is a set of one or more calls to transactions along with the data to be processed by the transactions. The system normally executes the transactions in a session non-interactively, allowing rapid entry of bulk data into an R/3 System.

A session records transactions and data in a special format that can be interpreted by the R/3 System. When the System reads a session, it uses the data in the session to simulate on-line entry of transactions and data. The System can call transactions and enter data using most of the facilities that are available to interactive users.

For example, the data that a session enters into transaction screens is subject to the same consistency checking as in normal interactive operation. Further, batch input sessions are subject to the user-based authorization checking that is performed by the system.

To transfer data with batch-input, the system that is sending the data uses a data transfer interface provided by an R/3 application program in the receiving system. The interface program in the application then produces a batch input session.

When a session is generated, a client and user are associated with it. If the session is run in background-processing mode, the system uses this user for authorization checking as the session runs. This authorization testing applies whether you sent the job for batch execution or the session was started by a background job.

Sessions that you process in one of the interactive modes are run with your authorizations. The interactive modes are described later in this section.