How to Identify Whether the Underlying Database is a HANA Database?

SAP HANA is a high-performance in-memory database that significantly improves the processing speed of SAP applications. Identifying whether an SAP system is running on a HANA database is essential for leveraging its advanced features. 

Methods to Identify if the Underlying Database is SAP HANA

1. Using ABAP Class CL_DB_SYS in SAP NetWeaver 7.4

SAP introduced the CL_DB_SYS class in ABAP 7.4, which helps detect SAP HANA as the database system. This method is useful as it allows for code-based detection and enhances maintainability.

ABAP Code Example

IF cl_db_sys=>is_in_memory_db = abap_true. 
    WRITE: 'HANA DB'. 
ENDIF.
If the output is 'HANA DB', the system is running on SAP HANA.

2. Checking SY-DBSYS System Variable

The SY-DBSYS system variable contains the database system type. If it returns "HDB", the SAP system is running on an SAP HANA database.

3. Using RFC_SYSTEM_INFO Function Module

You can use the RFC_SYSTEM_INFO function module to check the database system remotely via RFC (Remote Function Call).

Steps:

1. Execute RFC_SYSTEM_INFO in the SAP GUI.
2. Look for the output parameter RFCSI_EXPORT-RFCDBSYS.
3. If the value is "HDB", it confirms that the system is running on SAP HANA.

4. Checking via SAP GUI System Status Screen

SAP professionals can verify the database type using the System Status screen in SAP GUI.

Steps:

1. Log in to the SAP system via SAP GUI.
2. Navigate to System > Status... from the top menu.
3. In the Database Data section, check the Database System field.
4. If it displays "HDB", then the system is running on SAP HANA.

HANA Database

5. Using CL_ABAP_DBFEATURES to Check HANA-Specific Features

If you are interested in SAP HANA because of its advanced features, you can use the CL_ABAP_DBFEATURES class to check if a particular feature is available.

This method helps determine whether HANA-specific optimizations can be used in your ABAP code.

Conclusion

Identifying whether an SAP system runs on HANA is crucial for optimizing performance and leveraging its capabilities. The methods discussed—ABAP class CL_DB_SYS, SY-DBSYS, RFC_SYSTEM_INFO, SAP GUI system status, and CL_ABAP_DBFEATURES—provide multiple ways to check the underlying database type efficiently.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How do I check if my SAP system is running on SAP HANA without coding?

You can check via SAP GUI System Status under the Database Data section. If the database system is "HDB", then it's SAP HANA.

2. Can I use RFC to determine the SAP database type?

Yes, you can execute the RFC_SYSTEM_INFO function and check if the value of RFCSI_EXPORT-RFCDBSYS is "HDB".

3. Is there a system variable that directly shows the database type?

Yes, the SY-DBSYS system variable contains the database type, and "HDB" indicates SAP HANA.

4. Why is it important to know if my system runs on HANA?

SAP HANA provides in-memory processing, faster transactions, and advanced features like CDS views and AMDPs, which significantly improve SAP performance.

5. Can I check for HANA-specific features programmatically?

Yes, you can use the CL_ABAP_DBFEATURES class to check if a specific feature is supported.

6. What ABAP class can I use in SAP NetWeaver 7.4 to check the database?

You can use the CL_DB_SYS class with is_in_memory_db to verify if the database is SAP HANA. By using these methods, you can quickly determine if your SAP system runs on SAP HANA and take advantage of its performance benefits. 
 

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