What is SAP CATT?
SAP CATT (Computer Aided Test Tool) is an automated testing and data upload utility built into SAP. Initially designed for testing processes within the SAP environment, it has grown into a powerful tool for bulk data uploads, especially favored by functional consultants. Whether it's loading master data, simulating transactional inputs, or archiving, CATT simplifies tasks that would otherwise demand extensive manual effort or technical programming knowledge. Originally intended for test automation, many SAP professionals now use it for practical purposes like uploading vendor records or configuring massive data volumes with ease. The tool replicates real-time SAP user inputs, meaning you can record a transaction once, modify variable fields, and automate the process hundreds of times.Key Benefits of Using SAP CATT
- No Programming Required: Functional users can perform uploads without writing ABAP code.
- Time-Saving: Automate data input for hundreds of records in minutes.
- Reusability: Once created, CATT scripts can be reused across similar data upload tasks.
- Test Accuracy: Emulates actual SAP screen actions, ensuring realism in test scenarios.
- Logging & Error Tracking: Keeps a detailed log of all actions performed.
Who Should Use SAP CATT?
CATT is a versatile tool suitable for:- Functional Consultants: Especially those needing to upload data but lacking technical expertise.
- Technical Teams: When quick testing or repetitive tasks are required without new code.
- End Users in Training Environments: To create mock data for simulations.
Common Use Cases of SAP CATT
Sales and Purchase Orders
One of the most impactful uses of CATT is creating multiple sales or purchase orders for training or testing purposes. With this tool, over 200 orders can be generated in minutes, saving days of manual effort.Delivery and Configuration Entries
Need to prepare a delivery dataset for a sales training session? Or enter 900 configuration records? CATT handles it smoothly and efficiently.Master and Transactional Data Uploads
CATT shines when managing large volumes of master data like material groups or vendor records. It’s also instrumental for archiving preparation, providing a seamless, accurate way to build test data sets.Limitations of SAP CATT
- Error Handling: Identifying failed records can be tedious since errors aren't automatically flagged. You must export logs to Excel and filter failed entries manually.
- UI Dependency: Heavily reliant on the SAP GUI, making it less flexible than some newer tools.
- Requires Initial Setup Time: Recording transactions and mapping fields can take time upfront.
System Requirements for CATT
To utilize SAP CATT effectively:- CATT must be enabled in the production environment (check with your system administrator via transaction SCC4).
- Access to a development client is required to create and test the CATT scripts.
Step-by-Step Guide to Using SAP CATT
Step 1: Creating a CATT Test Case
- Run Transaction: SCAT
- Name your test case (begin with “Z_”, e.g., Z_IE01_UPLOAD)
- Click Record, enter the desired transaction (e.g., IE01)
- Record data entry for all required fields
- Save the test case
Step 2: Downloading the Source File
- In SCAT, double-click the TCD line
- Click Field List, select fields to be modified
- Each selected field becomes an import parameter (e.g., &MATNR)
- Navigate to GOTO -> Variants -> Export Default
- Save file as a .TXT file (e.g., Z_UPLOAD_TEMPLATE.TXT)
Step 3: Modifying the Source File
- Open file in Excel (as tab-delimited text)
- Do not change the first three rows
- Enter data starting from row 4
- Save the file as Text (Tab-delimited)
Step 4: Uploading Data to SAP
- Execute the test case
- Choose processing mode (Errors/Background)
- Set Variant to "External from File"
- Browse and select your prepared file
- Click Execute to begin upload
Tips for Successful CATT Execution
- Use meaningful test case names
- Record every necessary field
- Always back up your SAP environment before uploads
- Perform a small test upload before full execution
- Keep an eye on system logs for error identification
Differences Between CATT and LSMW
| Feature | SAP CATT | LSMW |
|---|---|---|
| Target Users | Functional users & testers | Technical users & developers |
| UI Dependency | High | Low |
| Script Creation | GUI-based | Mapping-based |
| Use Case | Repeated transactional recordings | Complex data migrations |
| Error Handling | Manual via logs | Built-in mapping validation |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Is SAP CATT suitable for production systems?CATT should be used cautiously in production. Always validate and test in development or quality systems first.
Q2: Can I upload master data like vendor or material records using CATT?
Yes, CATT is widely used for uploading both master and transactional data.
Q3: Is ABAP knowledge required to use CATT?
No programming is required. Functional consultants can use CATT with minimal training.
Q4: What if some records fail during upload?
Use Excel to filter failed entries from the log and reprocess them manually.
Q5: How is CATT different from using an Excel macro?
CATT interacts directly with SAP and emulates real transaction processing, unlike macros.
Q6: How do I enable CATT in my SAP environment?
Access SCC4 and consult your SAP Basis team to enable CATT execution.
Final Thoughts on SAP CATT
SAP CATT is a hidden gem for non-technical users, enabling them to manage bulk data processes efficiently without writing a single line of code. Its real-world applications—from test data preparation to massive uploads—make it indispensable in many SAP projects. With a few careful steps and best practices, anyone can master CATT and reduce repetitive tasks dramatically.