Diff Btn EDI and ALE
Hi Experts,
What is the diff btn EDI and ALE.
Straight answers will be rewarded.
Regards,
SAI
Hi,
In simple words ...
ALE is technology for SAP mainly use to transfer data between SAP systems.
EDI is the independent technology use to transfer data between two systems, they can be SAP systems or non SAP systems.
ALE = Application Link Enable: Initially developed for SAP as an abstract layer to extract master and transactional data to be sent ellectronically to other SAP systems. These days is also being used to send data no non-SAP systems. ALE is not a protocol or anything like that, it's just abstract layer composed by a set of applications which are capable of extracting aplication data on a 1-time basis or periodically, by selection criteria or incrementally by deltas.
In contrast, EDI = Electronic data interface, this is a comunication protocol not designed by SAP but it´s an industry standard. Of course most SAP software supports EDI, but EDI it's no software but the specification of the protocol in itself.
Regards,
Padmam.
Similar Messages
-
Cand any one of you tell me exact difference between EDI and ALE
hi praneeth,
ALE: Application link enabling is a methodology used to transfer data between two applications
EDI (Electronic Data Interchange) is the standards to integrate data between those applications who support these standards
IDOC s are converted into a standard text format by EDI and send it to receiver application which is able to interpret that message means which support edi standards.
PLS refer existing threads, articles,blogs b4 posting
Regards,
Mandeep Virk -
Hi,
I am new to Idocs i would like to know the cofiguration settings for EDI and ALE from starting.I know abt creating partner profiles and the other stuff. I would like to know in detail. Please let me know.
Thanks in Advance,
Srikanth.NHi
Data Creation in Idoc
IDocs are text encoded documents with a rigid structure that are used to exchange data between R/3 and a foreign system. Instead of calling a program in the destination system directly, the data is first packed into an IDoc and then sent to the receiving system, where it is analyzed and properly processed. Therefore an IDoc data exchange is always an
asynchronous process. The significant difference between simple RFC-calls and IDoc data exchange is the fact, that every action performed on IDocs are protocolled by R/3 and IDocs can be reprocessed if an error occurred in one of the message steps.
While IDocs have to be understood as a data exchange protocol, EDI and ALE are typical use cases for IDocs. R/3 uses IDocs for both EDI and ALE to deliver data to the receiving system. ALE is basically the scheduling mechanism that defines when and between which partners and what kind of data will be exchanged on a regular or event triggered basis. Such a set-up is called an ALE-scenario.
IDoc is a intermediate document to exchange data between two SAP Systems.
*IDocs are structured ASCII files (or a virtual equivalent).
*Electronic Interchange Document
*They are the file format used by SAP R/3 to exchange data with foreign systems.
*Data Is transmitted in ASCII format, i.e. human readable form
*IDocs exchange messages
*IDocs are used like classical interface files
IDOC types are templates for specific message types depending on what is the business document, you want to exchange.
WE30 - you can create a IDOC type.
An IDOC with data, will have to be triggered by the application that is trying to send out the data.
FOr testing you can use WE19.
How to create idoc?
*WE30 - you can create a IDOC type
For more information in details on the same along with the examples can be viewed on:
http://www.netweaverguru.com/EDI/HTML/IDocBook.htm#_Toc8400404
http://help.sap.com/saphelp_erp2005/helpdata/en/0b/2a6620507d11d18ee90000e8366fc2/frameset.htm
http://www.sappoint.com/presentation.html
http://www.allsaplinks.com/idoc_search.html
http://www.sapgenie.com/sapedi/idoc_abap.htm
http://www.erpgenie.com/sapedi/idoc_abap.htm
To Create Idoc we need to follow these steps:
Create Segment ( WE31)
Create Idoc Type ( WE30 )
Create Message Type ( WE81 )
Assign Idoc Type to Message Type ( WE82 )
Creating a Segment
Go to transaction code WE31
Enter the name for your segment type and click on the Create icon
Type the short text
Enter the variable names and data elements
Save it and go back
Go to Edit -> Set Release
Follow steps to create more number of segments
Create IDOC Type
Go to transaction code WE30
Enter the Object Name, select Basic type and click Create icon
Select the create new option and enter a description for your basic IDOC type and press enter
Select the IDOC Name and click Create icon
The system prompts us to enter a segment type and its attributes
Choose the appropriate values and press Enter
The system transfers the name of the segment type to the IDOC editor.
Follow these steps to add more number of segments to Parent or as Parent-child relation
Save it and go back
Go to Edit -> Set release
Create Message Type
Go to transaction code WE81
Change the details from Display mode to Change mode
After selection, the system will give this message The table is cross-client (see Help for further info). Press Enter
Click New Entries to create new Message Type
Fill details
Save it and go back
Assign Message Type to IDoc Type
Go to transaction code WE82
Change the details from Display mode to Change mode
After selection, the system will give this message The table is cross-client (see Help for further info). Press Enter.
Click New Entries to create new Message Type.
Fill details
Save it and go back
Check these out..
Re: How to create IDOC
Check below link. It will give the step by step procedure for IDOC creation.
http://www.supinfo-projects.com/cn/2005/idocs_en/2/
ALE/ IDOC
http://help.sap.com/saphelp_erp2004/helpdata/en/dc/6b835943d711d1893e0000e8323c4f/content.htm
http://www.sapgenie.com/sapgenie/docs/ale_scenario_development_procedure.doc
http://edocs.bea.com/elink/adapter/r3/userhtm/ale.htm#1008419
http://www.netweaverguru.com/EDI/HTML/IDocBook.htm
http://www.sapgenie.com/sapedi/index.htm
http://www.sappoint.com/abap/ale.pdf
http://www.sappoint.com/abap/ale2.pdf
http://www.sapgenie.com/sapedi/idoc_abap.htm
http://help.sap.com/saphelp_erp2005/helpdata/en/0b/2a60bb507d11d18ee90000e8366fc2/frameset.htm
http://help.sap.com/saphelp_erp2005/helpdata/en/78/217da751ce11d189570000e829fbbd/frameset.htm
http://www.allsaplinks.com/idoc_sample.html
http://www.sappoint.com/abap.html
http://help.sap.com/saphelp_erp2004/helpdata/en/dc/6b835943d711d1893e0000e8323c4f/content.htm
http://www.sapgenie.com/sapgenie/docs/ale_scenario_development_procedure.doc
http://edocs.bea.com/elink/adapter/r3/userhtm/ale.htm#1008419
http://www.netweaverguru.com/EDI/HTML/IDocBook.htm
http://www.sapgenie.com/sapedi/index.htm
http://www.allsaplinks.com/idoc_sample.html
http://www.sapgenie.com/sapgenie/docs/ale_scenario_development_procedure.docs
go trough these links.
http://help.sap.com/saphelp_erp2004/helpdata/en/dc/6b835943d711d1893e0000e8323c4f/content.htm
http://www.sapgenie.com/sapgenie/docs/ale_scenario_development_procedure.doc
http://edocs.bea.com/elink/adapter/r3/userhtm/ale.htm#1008419
http://www.netweaverguru.com/EDI/HTML/IDocBook.htm
http://www.sapgenie.com/sapedi/index.htm
http://www.sappoint.com/abap/ale.pdf
http://www.sappoint.com/abap/ale2.pdf
http://www.sapgenie.com/sapedi/idoc_abap.htm
http://help.sap.com/saphelp_erp2005/helpdata/en/0b/2a60bb507d11d18ee90000e8366fc2/frameset.htm
http://help.sap.com/saphelp_erp2005/helpdata/en/78/217da751ce11d189570000e829fbbd/frameset.htm
http://www.allsaplinks.com/idoc_sample.html
http://www.sappoint.com/abap.html
http://help.sap.com/saphelp_erp2004/helpdata/en/dc/6b835943d711d1893e0000e8323c4f/content.htm
http://www.sapgenie.com/sapgenie/docs/ale_scenario_development_procedure.doc
http://edocs.bea.com/elink/adapter/r3/userhtm/ale.htm#1008419
http://www.netweaverguru.com/EDI/HTML/IDocBook.htm
http://www.sapgenie.com/sapedi/index.htm
http://www.allsaplinks.com/idoc_sample.html
http://http://help.sap.com/saphelp_erp2004/helpdata/en/dc/6b835943d711d1893e0000e8323c4f/content.htm
An IDoc is simply a data container that is used to exchange information between any two processes that can understand the syntax and semantics of the data...
1.IDOCs are stored in the database. In the SAP system, IDOCs are stored in database tables.
2.IDOCs are independent of the sending and receiving systems.
3.IDOCs are independent of the direction of data exchange.
The two available process for IDOCs are
Outbound Process
Inbound Process
AND There are basically two types of IDOCs.
Basic IDOCs
Basic IDOC type defines the structure and format of the business document that is to be exchanged between two systems.
Extended IDOCs
Extending the functionality by adding more segments to existing Basic IDOCs.
To Create Idoc we need to follow these steps:
Create Segment ( WE31)
Create Idoc Type ( WE30)
Create Message Type ( WE81)
Assign Idoc Type to Message Type ( WE82)
imp links
http://www.allsaplinks.com/idoc_sample.html
http://www.sapgenie.com/sapedi/idoc_abap.htm
www.sappoint.com
--here u can find the ppts and basic seetings for ALE
http://sappoint.com/presentation.html
www.sapgenie.com
http://www.sapgenie.com/ale/index.htm
WE30 - you can create a IDOC type.
An IDOC with data, will have to be triggered by the application that is trying to send out the data.
Try this..Hope this will help.
>>>> SAP ALE & IDOC<<<<
Steps to configuration(Basis) >>
1. Create Logical System (LS) for each applicable ALE-enabled client
2. Link client to Logical System on the respective servers
3. Create background user, to be used by ALE(with authorizaton for ALE postings)
4. Create RFC Destinations(SM59)
5. Ports in Idoc processing(WE21)
6. Generate partner profiles for sending system
The functional configuration(Tcode: SALE)
Create a Customer Distribution Model (CDM);
Add appropriate message types and filters to the CDM;
Generate outbound partner profiles;
Distribute the CDM to the receiving systems; and
Generate inbound partner profiles on each of the clients.
Steps to customize a new IDoc >>>
1. Define IDoc Segment (WE31)
2. Convert Segments into an IDoc type (WE30)
3. Create a Message Type (WE81)
4. Create valid Combination of Message & IDoc type(WE82)
5. Define Processing Code(WE41 for OUT / WE42 for IN)
6. Define Partner Profile(WE20)
Important Transaction Codes:
SALE - IMG ALE Configuration root
WE20 - Manually maintain partner profiles
BD64 - Maintain customer distribution model
BD71 - Distribute customer distribution model
SM59 - Create RFC Destinations
BDM5 - Consistency check (Transaction scenarios)
BD82 - Generate Partner Profiles
BD61 - Activate Change Pointers - Globally
BD50 - Activate Change Pointer for Msg Type
BD52 - Activate change pointer per change.doc object
BD59 - Allocation object type -> IDOC type
BD56 - Maintain IDOC Segment Filters
BD53 - Reduction of Message Types
BD21 - Select Change Pointer
BD87 - Status Monitor for ALE Messages
BDM5 - Consistency check (Transaction scenarios)
BD62 - Define rules
BD79 - Maintain rules
BD55 - Defining settings for IDoc conversion
WEDI - ALE IDoc Administration
WE21 - Ports in Idoc processing
WE60 - IDoc documentation
SARA - IDoc archiving (Object type IDOC)
WE47 - IDoc status maintenance
WE07 - IDoc statistics
BALE - ALE Distribution Administration
WE05 - IDoc overview
BD87 - Inbound IDoc reprocessing
BD88 - Outbound IDoc reprocessing
BDM2 - IDoc Trace
BDM7 - IDoc Audit Analysis
BD21 - Create IDocs from change pointers
SM58 - Schedule RFC Failures
Basic config for Distributed data:
BD64: Maintain a Distributed Model
BD82: Generate Partner Profile
BD64: Distribute the distribution Model
Programs
RBDMIDOC Creating IDoc Type from Change Pointers
RSEOUT00 Process all selected IDocs (EDI)
RBDAPP01 - Inbound Processing of IDocs Ready for Transfer
RSARFCEX - Execute Calls Not Yet Executed
RBDMOIND - Status Conversion with Successful tRFC Execution
RBDMANIN - Start error handling for non-posted IDocs
RBDSTATE - Send Audit Confirmations
FOr testing you can use WE19.
Check these links.
http://help.sap.com/saphelp_erp2004/helpdata/en/dc/6b835943d711d1893e0000e8323c4f/content.htm
http://www.sapgenie.com/sapgenie/docs/ale_scenario_development_procedure.doc
http://edocs.bea.com/elink/adapter/r3/userhtm/ale.htm#1008419
http://www.netweaverguru.com/EDI/HTML/IDocBook.htm
http://www.sapgenie.com/sapedi/index.htm
http://www.sappoint.com/abap/ale.pdf
http://www.sappoint.com/abap/ale2.pdf
http://www.sapgenie.com/sapedi/idoc_abap.htm
http://help.sap.com/saphelp_erp2005/helpdata/en/0b/2a60bb507d11d18ee90000e8366fc2/frameset.htm
http://help.sap.com/saphelp_erp2005/helpdata/en/78/217da751ce11d189570000e829fbbd/frameset.htm
http://www.allsaplinks.com/idoc_sample.html
http://www.sappoint.com/abap.html
http://help.sap.com/saphelp_erp2004/helpdata/en/dc/6b835943d711d1893e0000e8323c4f/content.htm
http://www.sapgenie.com/sapgenie/docs/ale_scenario_development_procedure.doc
http://edocs.bea.com/elink/adapter/r3/userhtm/ale.htm#1008419
http://www.netweaverguru.com/EDI/HTML/IDocBook.htm
http://www.sapgenie.com/sapedi/index.htm
http://www.allsaplinks.com/idoc_sample.html
http://www.sapgenie.com/sapgenie/docs/ale_scenario_development_procedure.docs
Please check this PDF documents for ALE and IDoc.
http://www.sappoint.com/abap/ale.pdf
http://www.sappoint.com/abap/ale2.pdf
http://help.sap.com/printdocu/core/Print46c/en/data/pdf/BCMIDALEIO/BCMIDALEIO.pdf
http://help.sap.com/printdocu/core/Print46c/en/data/pdf/BCMIDALEPRO/BCMIDALEPRO.pdf
http://help.sap.com/printdocu/core/Print46c/en/data/pdf/CABFAALEQS/CABFAALEQS.pdf
http://help.sap.com/printdocu/core/Print46c/en/data/pdf/BCSRVEDISC/CAEDISCAP_STC.pdf
http://help.sap.com/printdocu/core/Print46c/en/data/pdf/BCSRVEDI/CAEDI.pdf
Check below link. It will give the step by step procedure for IDOC creation.
http://www.supinfo-projects.com/cn/2005/idocs_en/2/
Outbound:
Step 1. Application document is created when transaction is saved.
2. Message control is invoked.
3. Messages are processed by system.
4. Messages are Edited (if desired).
5. Output (ALE / EDI) is checked
6. Validate against Message control record from Partner Profile
7. Application Document is saved.
8. Entry NAST table is created for every selected output program
along with Medium & Timing.
9. Check for Process Immediately .
If (yes)
Determine Processing Program from TNAPR Table.
ELSE
Execute RSNASTED Program.
10. Read Partner Profile to determine Process Code.
11. Process Code points to the Function Module & Invoked.
12. IDoc is generated.
13. Check for ALE Request.
if (Yes)
Perform Filters, Conversions, Version Changes etc.
Else.
IDoc is stored in DATABASE.
INBOUND:
Step 1. EDI Subsystem creates an IDoc file from EDI Messages
2. Subsystem calls Functional Module EDI_DATA_INCOMING from startRFC program.
3. Data in Control Record is validate against the Partner Profile.
4. IDoc is generated in Database and syntax check is carried out.
5. IDoc file is deleted once file read.
6. Event PROCESSSTATE REACHED is triggered in Idoc Object Workflow.
7. Check for Process Immediately.
If NO
Execute RBDAPP01 Program
Else
Read Process Code from Partner Profile
Process Code Points to Function Module
Application Document Posted.
further help:
check url
http://www.sappoint.com/abap/ale.pdf
http://www.sappoint.com/abap/ale2.pdf
http://www.sapgenie.com/ale/configuration.htm
http://www.sappoint.com/abap/ale.pdf
http://www.sappoint.com/abap/ale2.pdf
http://www.sapdevelopment.co.uk/training
And also u can get lots of inof from the below link.
http://www.sapgenie.com/ale/why_ale.htm
<b>Reward points for useful Answers</b>
Regards
Anji -
hi,
can anyone tell what are the table get affected while using EDI and ALE , and also with their explanation.
thanks
GaneshALE tables.
EDMSG - logical message type
TBD05 - distribution model for message type
TBDLS - logical system
TBD00 - view of customer model
TBD10 - idoc field in ALE objects
BDCP - change pointer
CDHDR - chnage document header
CDPOS - change document item
TBD21 - ale idoc reduction
TBD30 - ale conversion rule
TBD11 - ale object type
EDI Tables
EDI_DC40 - Idoc control record structure
EDI_DC - Control record structur
EDIDC - Idoc control record
EDI_DD40 - Idoc data record structure
EDI_DD - data record structure
EDID4 - Idoc data record from v4
EDID2 - Idoc data record from v3
EDIDS - status record idoc
EDIDD - data record idoc
EDID3 - Idoc data record from v3 -
Hi Friends
What is diff bet EDI and XI?
Regards
Vinny Novice"EDI is a technique used to communicate business transactions between computer systems of different companies and organizations. Note that sometimes the EDI mechanism deployed at a company is often used to interface to other systems within the same organization."
The business data is saved in IDoc format in the IDoc Interface and is forwarded as IDocs. If an error occurs, exception handling is triggered using SAP tasks. The agents who are responsible for these tasks and have the relevant authorizations are defined in the IDoc Interface.
Features
The IDoc Interface supports three types of data flow with the external system:
· Outbound processing
IDocs are transferred to a receiving system from your SAP System.
· Inbound processing
IDocs are transferred to your SAP System from an upstream system.
· Status processing
XI
SAP XI is based on general standards so as to enable external systems to be integrated. At the center of the infrastructure is an XML-based communication that uses HTTP (Hyper Text Transfer Protocol). The application-specific contents are transferred in messages in user-defined XML (eXtensible Markup Language) schema from the sender to the receiver using the Integration Server.
● Modeling and design of messages, transformations, and cross-component integration processes
● Configuration options for managing collaborative processes and message flow
● Runtime for message and process management
● Adapter Engine for integrating heterogeneous system components
● Central monitoring for monitoring message flow and processes
Thanks -
Difference between EDI and ALE.
Hi gurus,
Let clarify my confusion in difference between EDI and ALE.please give a proper example for the same.
please have a look my confusions as mentioned below:
Case 1--In same company,suppose we r using two clients 417 and 416 and want to transfer sap data between these two clients.Then which process (EDI or ALE) has to be follow?
Case2--Suppose want to transfer data from SAP system to non SAP system then which process(EDI or ALE) has to be follow.
Regards
Ashish KHi,
Follow the links on ALE and EDI
http://help.sap.com/erp2005_ehp_02/helpdata/en/a5/63240543a211d189410000e829fbbd/frameset.htm
http://www.thespot4sap.com/Articles/SAP_ALE_Introduction.asp
http://www.wb.nic.in/internet/edi.html
In both cases you can use any one either ALE or EDI.
Rgds,
Suman -
Relation of ALE , EDI and idoc
HI
what is relation of these ALE, EDI, IDOC , i know the definition of these , i want know ( while the transfer of sap to sap ALE tool is used ,) where this idoc is used ,
regards
shivajiHi Shivaji,
What is EDI ?
Electronic Data Interchange
The computer-to-computer electronic exchange of machine processable business documents in a standard format
An electronic alternative to paper, fax, and phone-based transactions used by companies to communicate with one another
Purpose:
Allows for better time management and relieves the entering of duplicate information while cutting down on discrepancies and human intervention.
The Electronic Data Interchange component in Sales and Distribution consists of an Intermediate Document (IDoc) [Ext.] interface. You can use this interface to
send messages (outbound processing) such as an order confirmation through Electronic Data Interchange (EDI)
receive messages (inbound processing) such as a sales order through EDI
EDI:
What ?
The technology of transmitting documents electronically
Why ?
For Electronic Data Interchange between a company and trading partners
How ?
By means of an electronic document - the IDoc
From the SAP side, the EDI interface is based on IDoc technology, which is independent of
EDI standards. All data is transferred in files between the R/3 System and the EDI subsystem.
Synchronous Remote Function Call (RFC) is implemented to define the time of transfer for a
file between the two systems. The following data can be transferred using the EDI interface:
Outbound Idocs: IDocs are transferred from the R/3 System to the EDI subsystem.
Inbound Idocs: IDocs are transferred from the EDI subsystem to the R/3 System.
Status report: The EDI subsystem sends a status report to the R/3 System on the progress of
the processing of the outbound Idoc.
Contents of IDOC
The data in every IDoc is exchanged between the SAP system and a subsystem in the following three record types, irrespective of the IDoc type:
Control record (Table: EDIDC): Contains information about Sender and Receiver. There is only one control record per IDoc. It consists of
IDoc Number
Sender and Receiver information
IDoc Message Type* / Port.
IDoc Type / Direction / Current status / Partner No / Partner Type (Vendor/customer)
Data record (Table: EDIDD): Contains the message to be exchanged between Sender and Receiver. An IDoc can contain multiple data records, as defined by the IDoc structure. Data records store application data such as purchase order / sales order header information, sales order details like sales doc #, Material / Qty and other relevant information.
Status record (Table: EDIDS): Contains Status of IDoc at various stages, during the transmission of IDoc between Sender and Receiver. Multiple status records are usually attached to an IDoc. Status records are attached to an IDoc throughout the process like status code, date and time at every stage
Know Me
Basic Type: The form of IDOC type that is originally created in the system. Like ORDERS01 is a basic type IDOC for order messages. It is using the basic types only you would be able to enhance them to suit new requirements within the same IDOC structure. Any enhancement to the basic type IDOC will produce an Extension IDOC that would be more or less similar to the basic type with some new additions (of segments or fields). Here, I would go on to say that IDOC type and Basic type is the same thing that would be referred to interchangeably.
Message type: Again, obvious from the name, its the message that is being conveyed. A message type is assigned to the Basic type. Here, logical messages are assigned to the basic type to reflect a business message being transacted. For example, ORDERS is the message type for a purchase order sent by buyer to vendor. The use of which Basic type in this message will differ from buyer to vendor. Basic types used for ORDERS are ORDERS01/02/ etc...Also, one may come up with a custom built IDOC type (or basic type as you can say)...But it is essential to associate a message type with a basic type IDOC. This feature will enable the same IDOC type to be used for a related message. For example : ORDERS01 can be used for message ORDERS for posting a order, the same IDOC can be associated with message ORDCHG to indicate that the message is an order change and so the processing of this IDOC will change accordingly.
IDoc Type:
 Defines the structure of data records
 IDoc Type is used to understand the message in string form available in the data records.
 IDoc type is version dependent i.e an Idoc type can be used only in versions in and above the version in which IDoc is released.
 Transaction WE30 is used to define and release IDoc Types
 Newly created Idoc is a BASIC IDoc and modifications
(Additions of segments) to IDoc after it has been released can be done by creation of extension of IDoc.
 IDoc type can be defined by structuring Segments
Function Module: The most important player in the IDOC processing. This is nothing but an ABAP program to process the IDOC. SAP has supplied function modules to process all standard basic IDOCs and messages. A function module is determined based on the Basic IDOC type and the message type (also message code). So from the above descriptions about basic and message type, the combination of two would primarily determine which IDOC will process this idoc. As an instance, ORDERS01 with message ORDERS is configured to be processed by FM IDOC_INPUT_ORDERS. Similarly, ORDERS01 + ORDCHG will be processed by IDOC_INPUT_ORDCHG. Likewise, you can see all associations in WE57 for inbound. For out bounds, you would refer to process codes (WE41).
Segments: The idenfiers in the IDOC structure which indicates the data, their level, state of occurrence....You can take them as records in the IDOC. Each individual segment will come to you as a record in the IDOC. (Go to EDID4, provide an IDOC # and it will list all included segments as records.) Segments are logically nested to indicate various levels of data (header, item etc).
Qualifiers: Inside the segments, there are fields that can carry actual data often signified by use of qualifiers. A qualifier for a segment field would provide the exact meaning of the data. For example, E1EDK03 segment is configured for dates related data. Segment field IDDAT qualifies the date type and the DATUM field gives out the actual date. So you may see a date qualified as 002, which can be interpreted as requested delivery date. Likewise you can see all qualifiers and their meanings in the associated segment fields in SE12. Give the segment name and go to the domain the ranges for the ID fields.
How EDI Works
Sending Data
Computer system serves as a data repository.
EDI extracts information from existing computer applications.
Transmits paperless, computer-readable documents via telephone lines.
Receiving Data
Fed directly into a computer system.
Automatically processed and interfaced with internal applications.
Processing Time
Accomplished in minutes.
No re-keying.
No paper shuffling.
No attendant costs of manual document processing and delivery.
What is the difference between ALE, EDI, IDocs and BAPI?
The interface concept of the classic R/3 is based on two different strategies: Remote Function Calls (RFC) and data exchange through IDoc message documents. RFC makes direct and synchronous calls of a program in the remote system. If the caller is an external program it will call an RFC-enabled function in R/3 and if the calling program is the R/3 system it will call an RFC-function in another R/3-system or it will call a non-R/3 program through a gateway-proxy (usually rfcexec.exe). BAPIs are a subset of the RFC-enabled function modules, especially designed as Application Programming Interface (API) to the SAP business object, or in other words: are function modules officially released by SAP to be called from external programs.
IDocs are text encoded documents with a rigid structure that are used to exchange data between R/3 and a foreign system. Instead of calling a program in the destination system directly, the data is first packed into an IDoc and then sent to the receiving system, where it is analyzed and properly processed. Therefore an IDoc data exchange is always an asynchronous process. The significant difference between simple RFC-calls and IDoc data exchange is the fact, that every action performed on IDocs are protocolled by R/3 and IDocs can be reprocessed if an error occurred in one of the message steps.
While IDocs have to be understood as a data exchange protocol, EDI and ALE are typical use cases for IDocs. R/3 uses IDocs for both EDI and ALE to deliver data to the receiving system. ALE is basically the scheduling mechanism that defines when and between which partners and what kind of data will be exchanged on a regular or event triggered basis. Such a set-up is called an ALE-scenario.
The philosophical difference between EDI and ALE can be pinned as follows: If we send data to an external partner, we generally speak of EDI, while ALE is a mechanism to reliable replicate data between trusting systems to store a redundant copy of the IDoc data. The difference is made clear, when we think of a purchase order that is sent as an IDoc. If we send the purchase order to a supplier then the supplier will store the purchase order as a sales order. However, if we send the purchase order via ALE to another R/3 system, then the receiving system will store the purchase order also as a purchase order.
ALE/EDI - Purpose
Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) and Application Link Enabling (ALE) are used for exchanging business data between different systems.
For both these forms of communication, you require the IDoc Interface. The IDoc interface is made up of the definition of a data structure and the processing logic of this data structure. The data structure is the IDoc. The IDoc is the general exchange format of the communicating systems. IDocs can be sent using different methods (for example, RFC or as a file).
Application Link Enabling (ALE)
You distribute data using ALE if you want to communicate from one system to one or more other (mostly internal) systems. ALE transfers data in IDoc format and uses the methods of tRFC for data transfer.
1. ALE enables the integration of business processes across several SAP or non-SAP systems.
Electronic Data Interchange (EDI)
You use EDI if you want to exchange business application documents with an (external) partner system (for example, a customer or vendor). The SAP system sends EDI messages in IDoc format to an EDI subsystem, where they are converted to a universal EDI standard (UN/EDIFACT or ANSI/X12). This enables communication with non-SAP systems.
1. By definition, two partners are involved in the process in an EDI application scenario: The sender and the recipient of an EDI message.
IDoc Interface/ALE
Purpose
The IDoc interface exchanges business data with an external system.
The IDoc interface consists of the definition of a data structure, along with processing logic for this data structure.
The data structure is the IDoc. The IDoc is the exchange format common to all the communicating systems. You can specify exception handling in the SAP Business Workflow, with IDocs, without the data already having to exist as SAP application documents.
You need the IDoc interface in the following scenarios:
Electronic data exchange (EDI)
Connect other business application systems (e.g. PC applications, external Workflow tools) by IDoc
Application Link Enabling (ALE).
Application Link Enabling (ALE) is a technology to create and run distributed applications
Hope this would help you.
Reward points if helpful.
Vamsi. -
Diff... between ALE, IDOC, RFC, BAPI, BADI --- Not clear and clarify
Hi All
I am learning XI and the difference between " ALE, IDOC, RFC, BAPI, BADI "
Not clear and when to use what and how in point of XI ?
Pl..clarify me
Adv..thanks and points
--- Rakesh BeheraHi
This will expalin you every thing ...pl..go through
The interface concept of the classic R/3 is based on two different strategies: Remote Function Calls (RFC) and data exchange through IDoc message documents. RFC makes direct and synchronous calls of a program in the remote system. If the caller is an external program it will call an RFC-enabled function in R/3 and if the calling program is the R/3 system it will call an RFC-function in another R/3-system or it will call a non-R/3 program through a gateway-proxy (usually rfcexec.exe). BAPIs are a subset of the RFC-enabled function modules, especially designed as Application Programming Interface (API) to the SAP business object, or in other words: are function modules officially released by SAP to be called from external programs.
IDocs are text encoded documents with a rigid structure that are used to exchange data between R/3 and a foreign system. Instead of calling a program in the destination system directly, the data is first packed into an IDoc and then sent to the receiving system, where it is analyzed and properly processed. Therefore an IDoc data exchange is always an asynchronous process. The significant difference between simple RFC-calls and IDoc data exchange is the fact, that every action performed on IDocs are protocolled by R/3 and IDocs can be reprocessed if an error occurred in one of the message steps.
While IDocs have to be understood as a data exchange protocol, EDI and ALE are typical use cases for IDocs. R/3 uses IDocs for both EDI and ALE to deliver data to the receiving system. ALE is basically the scheduling mechanism that defines when and between which partners and what kind of data will be exchanged on a regular or event triggered basis. Such a set-up is called an ALE-scenario.
The philosophical difference between EDI and ALE can be pinned as follows: If we send data to an external partner, we generally speak of EDI, while ALE is a mechanism to reliable replicate data between trusting systems to store a redundant copy of the IDoc data. The difference is made clear, when we think of a purchase order that is sent as an IDoc. If we send the purchase order to a supplier then the supplier will store the purchase order as a sales order. However, if we send the purchase order via ALE to another R/3 system, then the receiving system will store the purchase order also as a purchase order.
I hope this will help you to understand the difference bet..those
regards
--- prasad -
Dear All,
Please, can anyone tell me what is the difference between ALE/EDI and RFCs?
Thanks in advance.
Kind Regards,
Umesh.Hi prasad,
1) ALE = Application Link Enable: Initially developed for SAP as an abstract layer to extract master and transactional data to be sent ellectronically to other SAP systems. These days is also being used to send data no non-SAP systems. ALE is not a protocol or anything like that, it's just abstract layer composed by a set of applications which are capable of extracting aplication data on a 1-time basis or periodically, by selection criteria or incrementally by deltas.
2) In contrast, EDI = Electronic data interface, this is a comunication protocol not designed by SAP but it´s an industry standard. Of course most SAP software supports EDI, but EDI it's no software but the specification of the protocol in itself.
These r some major difference b/w ALE and EDI:
ALE: used to transfer IDOC with in the R3 distributed system.
EDI: used to transfer IDOC from R3 system to non sap system
ALE --This method is used to transfer master data
EDI--This method is maximum used to transfer transactional data.
ALE--RFC port is used
*EDI*-- FILE port is used
ALE--Data transfer takes place from one mother client to N different clients
EDI-- one partner 2 other partner thru customer distribution model
The philosophical difference between EDI and ALE can be pinned as follows:
If we send data to an external partner, we generally speak of EDI, while ALE is a mechanism to
reliable replicate data between trusting systems to store a redundant copy of the IDoc data.
The difference is made clear, when we think of a purchase order that is sent as an IDoc.
If we send the purchase order to a supplier then the supplier will store the purchase order as a sales order.
However, if we send the purchase order via ALE to another R/3 system, then the receiving system will store the purchase order also as a purchase order.
ALE
ALE is SAP proprietary technology that enables data communications between two or more SAP R/3 systems and/or R/3 and external systems. When a new enterprise resource planning (ERP) solution such as R/3 is implemented, companies have to interface the ERP system with legacy systems or other ERP systems.
ALE provides intelligent mechanisms where by clients can achieve integration as well as distribution of applications and data.
ALE technology facilitates rapid application prototyping and application interface development, thus reducing implementation time.
The ALE components are inherently integrated with SAP applications and are robust, leading to a highly reliable system.
ALE comes with application distribution/integration scenarios as well as a set of tools, programs, data definitions, and methodologies that you can easily configure to get an interface up and running.
ALE allows for efficient and reliable communication between distributed processes across physically separate SAP systems.
ALE is based on application to application integration using messaging architecture. A message defines data that is exchanged between two processes. IDocs are containers that hold data exchanged between the two systems.
Benefits of ALE:
Integration with non-SAP systems: ALE architecture allows third party applications to integrate with SAP system.
Reliable Distribution: Once message type created and the receiver of the message is determined, ALE delivers the message to the recipient. If there is any network problem it will buffer the message and delivers the message once the network is restored. It also ensures that the message is not delivered twice.
Release Upgrade: Any of the distributed system can be upgraded to the new release of SAP without affecting the functionality. The ALE layer ensures backward compatibility of messages exchanged between systems.
While IDocs have to be understood as a data exchange protocol, EDI and ALE are typical use cases for IDocs. R/3 uses IDocs for both EDI and ALE to deliver data to the receiving system. ALE is basically the scheduling mechanism that defines when and between which partners and what kind of data will be exchanged on a regular or event triggered basis. Such a set-up is called an ALE-scenario.
The philosophical difference between EDI and ALE can be pinned as follows: If we send data to an external partner, we generally speak of EDI, while ALE is a mechanism to reliable replicate data between trusting systems to store a redundant copy of the IDoc data. The difference is made clear, when we think of a purchase order that is sent as an IDoc. If we send the purchase order to a supplier then the supplier will store the purchase order as a sales order. However, if we send the purchase order via ALE to another R/3 system, then the receiving system will store the purchase order also as a purchase order.
REWARD IF USEFUL
THANKS AND REGARDS
SUMA SAILAJA PVN -
EDI (Electronic Data Interchange)
exchange of business documents (e.g. purchase/sales orders, invoices) between business partners (e.g. customer,
vendor) by means of electronic messages
ALE (Application Link Enabling)
integrated business processes across distributed systems with one company (e.g. replication of master data between
several R/3 systems)
distribution of master data, transactional data, and control data (i.e. application customizing)
IDoc (Intermediate Document):
format in which SAP systems store application documents for transfer
EDI subsystem/converter
external system that maps the IDoc format to international standards (e.g. UN/EDIFACT, ANSI X.12)Hi Anandha,
Differences :
ALE(Application Link Enabling) refers to the losely coupled systems whereas the EDI speaks about the Electronic Document Exchange. We need to enable ALE in order to use the EDI feature. ALE builds the bridge and EDI is the means by which the data moves in and out of the SAP system just like vehicles moving over the bridge. IDOC(Intermediate Documents) are the data containers which will be moving in and out of SAP carrying data.
Thus summarising we need to establish ALE between the systems in order to use EDI between them. In case we need to use EDI between SAP and someother target system then we need a EDI subsystem which understands these IDOCs and converts into the format understood by the target system.
EDI and ALE are typical use cases for IDocs. R/3 uses IDocs for both EDI and ALE to deliver data to the receiving system. ALE is basically the scheduling mechanism that defines when and between which partners and what kind of data will be exchanged on a regular or event triggered basis. Such a set-up is called an ALE-scenario.
The philosophical difference between EDI and ALE can be pinned as follows: If we send data to an external partner, we generally speak of EDI, while ALE is a mechanism to reliable replicate data between trusting systems to store a redundant copy of the IDoc data. The difference is made clear, when we think of a purchase order that is sent as an IDoc. If we send the purchase order to a supplier then the supplier will store the purchase order as a sales order. However, if we send the purchase order via ALE to another R/3 system, then the receiving system will store the purchase order also as a purchase order. -
Hi All,
I am beginner of ALE IDOC.
Please tell me in details whats is Control Records, Data Records and Status Records in details.
Thnks in Advance,
awards will be given.
UlhasHi,
Data Creation in Idoc
IDocs are text encoded documents with a rigid structure that are used to exchange data between R/3 and a foreign system. Instead of calling a program in the destination system directly, the data is first packed into an IDoc and then sent to the receiving system, where it is analyzed and properly processed. Therefore an IDoc data exchange is always an
asynchronous process. The significant difference between simple RFC-calls and IDoc data exchange is the fact, that every action performed on IDocs are protocolled by R/3 and IDocs can be reprocessed if an error occurred in one of the message steps.
While IDocs have to be understood as a data exchange protocol, EDI and ALE are typical use cases for IDocs. R/3 uses IDocs for both EDI and ALE to deliver data to the receiving system. ALE is basically the scheduling mechanism that defines when and between which partners and what kind of data will be exchanged on a regular or event triggered basis. Such a set-up is called an ALE-scenario.
IDoc is a intermediate document to exchange data between two SAP Systems.
*IDocs are structured ASCII files (or a virtual equivalent).
*Electronic Interchange Document
*They are the file format used by SAP R/3 to exchange data with foreign systems.
*Data Is transmitted in ASCII format, i.e. human readable form
*IDocs exchange messages
*IDocs are used like classical interface files
IDOC types are templates for specific message types depending on what is the business document, you want to exchange.
WE30 - you can create a IDOC type.
An IDOC with data, will have to be triggered by the application that is trying to send out the data.
FOr testing you can use WE19.
How to create idoc?
*WE30 - you can create a IDOC type
For more information in details on the same along with the examples can be viewed on:
http://www.netweaverguru.com/EDI/HTML/IDocBook.htm#_Toc8400404
http://help.sap.com/saphelp_erp2005/helpdata/en/0b/2a6620507d11d18ee90000e8366fc2/frameset.htm
http://www.sappoint.com/presentation.html
http://www.allsaplinks.com/idoc_search.html
http://www.sapgenie.com/sapedi/idoc_abap.htm
http://www.erpgenie.com/sapedi/idoc_abap.htm
To Create Idoc we need to follow these steps:
Create Segment ( WE31)
Create Idoc Type ( WE30 )
Create Message Type ( WE81 )
Assign Idoc Type to Message Type ( WE82 )
Creating a Segment
Go to transaction code WE31
Enter the name for your segment type and click on the Create icon
Type the short text
Enter the variable names and data elements
Save it and go back
Go to Edit -> Set Release
Follow steps to create more number of segments
Create IDOC Type
Go to transaction code WE30
Enter the Object Name, select Basic type and click Create icon
Select the create new option and enter a description for your basic IDOC type and press enter
Select the IDOC Name and click Create icon
The system prompts us to enter a segment type and its attributes
Choose the appropriate values and press Enter
The system transfers the name of the segment type to the IDOC editor.
Follow these steps to add more number of segments to Parent or as Parent-child relation
Save it and go back
Go to Edit -> Set release
Create Message Type
Go to transaction code WE81
Change the details from Display mode to Change mode
After selection, the system will give this message u201CThe table is cross-client (see Help for further info)u201D. Press Enter
Click New Entries to create new Message Type
Fill details
Save it and go back
Assign Message Type to IDoc Type
Go to transaction code WE82
Change the details from Display mode to Change mode
After selection, the system will give this message u201CThe table is cross-client (see Help for further info)u201D. Press Enter.
Click New Entries to create new Message Type.
Fill details
Save it and go back
Check these out..
Re: How to create IDOC
Check below link. It will give the step by step procedure for IDOC creation.
http://www.supinfo-projects.com/cn/2005/idocs_en/2/
ALE/ IDOC
http://help.sap.com/saphelp_erp2004/helpdata/en/dc/6b835943d711d1893e0000e8323c4f/content.htm
http://www.sapgenie.com/sapgenie/docs/ale_scenario_development_procedure.doc
http://edocs.bea.com/elink/adapter/r3/userhtm/ale.htm#1008419
http://www.netweaverguru.com/EDI/HTML/IDocBook.htm
http://www.sapgenie.com/sapedi/index.htm
http://www.sappoint.com/abap/ale.pdf
http://www.sappoint.com/abap/ale2.pdf
http://www.sapgenie.com/sapedi/idoc_abap.htm
http://help.sap.com/saphelp_erp2005/helpdata/en/0b/2a60bb507d11d18ee90000e8366fc2/frameset.htm
http://help.sap.com/saphelp_erp2005/helpdata/en/78/217da751ce11d189570000e829fbbd/frameset.htm
http://www.allsaplinks.com/idoc_sample.html
http://www.sappoint.com/abap.html
http://help.sap.com/saphelp_erp2004/helpdata/en/dc/6b835943d711d1893e0000e8323c4f/content.htm
http://www.sapgenie.com/sapgenie/docs/ale_scenario_development_procedure.doc
http://edocs.bea.com/elink/adapter/r3/userhtm/ale.htm#1008419
http://www.netweaverguru.com/EDI/HTML/IDocBook.htm
http://www.sapgenie.com/sapedi/index.htm
http://www.allsaplinks.com/idoc_sample.html
http://www.sapgenie.com/sapgenie/docs/ale_scenario_development_procedure.docs
go trough these links.
http://help.sap.com/saphelp_erp2004/helpdata/en/dc/6b835943d711d1893e0000e8323c4f/content.htm
http://www.sapgenie.com/sapgenie/docs/ale_scenario_development_procedure.doc
http://edocs.bea.com/elink/adapter/r3/userhtm/ale.htm#1008419
http://www.netweaverguru.com/EDI/HTML/IDocBook.htm
http://www.sapgenie.com/sapedi/index.htm
http://www.sappoint.com/abap/ale.pdf
http://www.sappoint.com/abap/ale2.pdf
http://www.sapgenie.com/sapedi/idoc_abap.htm
http://help.sap.com/saphelp_erp2005/helpdata/en/0b/2a60bb507d11d18ee90000e8366fc2/frameset.htm
http://help.sap.com/saphelp_erp2005/helpdata/en/78/217da751ce11d189570000e829fbbd/frameset.htm
http://www.allsaplinks.com/idoc_sample.html
http://www.sappoint.com/abap.html
http://help.sap.com/saphelp_erp2004/helpdata/en/dc/6b835943d711d1893e0000e8323c4f/content.htm
http://www.sapgenie.com/sapgenie/docs/ale_scenario_development_procedure.doc
http://edocs.bea.com/elink/adapter/r3/userhtm/ale.htm#1008419
http://www.netweaverguru.com/EDI/HTML/IDocBook.htm
http://www.sapgenie.com/sapedi/index.htm
http://www.allsaplinks.com/idoc_sample.html
http://http://help.sap.com/saphelp_erp2004/helpdata/en/dc/6b835943d711d1893e0000e8323c4f/content.htm
An IDoc is simply a data container that is used to exchange information between any two processes that can understand the syntax and semantics of the data...
1.IDOCs are stored in the database. In the SAP system, IDOCs are stored in database tables.
2.IDOCs are independent of the sending and receiving systems.
3.IDOCs are independent of the direction of data exchange.
The two available process for IDOCs are
Outbound Process
Inbound Process
AND There are basically two types of IDOCs.
Basic IDOCs
Basic IDOC type defines the structure and format of the business document that is to be exchanged between two systems.
Extended IDOCs
Extending the functionality by adding more segments to existing Basic IDOCs.
To Create Idoc we need to follow these steps:
Create Segment ( WE31)
Create Idoc Type ( WE30)
Create Message Type ( WE81)
Assign Idoc Type to Message Type ( WE82)
imp links
http://www.allsaplinks.com/idoc_sample.html
http://www.sapgenie.com/sapedi/idoc_abap.htm
www.sappoint.com
--here u can find the ppts and basic seetings for ALE
http://sappoint.com/presentation.html
www.sapgenie.com
http://www.sapgenie.com/ale/index.htm
WE30 - you can create a IDOC type.
An IDOC with data, will have to be triggered by the application that is trying to send out the data.
Try this..Hope this will help.
SAP ALE & IDOC<<<<
Steps to configuration(Basis) >>
1. Create Logical System (LS) for each applicable ALE-enabled client
2. Link client to Logical System on the respective servers
3. Create background user, to be used by ALE(with authorizaton for ALE postings)
4. Create RFC Destinations(SM59)
5. Ports in Idoc processing(WE21)
6. Generate partner profiles for sending system
The functional configuration(Tcode: SALE)
u2022 Create a Customer Distribution Model (CDM);
u2022 Add appropriate message types and filters to the CDM;
u2022 Generate outbound partner profiles;
u2022 Distribute the CDM to the receiving systems; and
u2022 Generate inbound partner profiles on each of the clients.
Steps to customize a new IDoc >>>
1. Define IDoc Segment (WE31)
2. Convert Segments into an IDoc type (WE30)
3. Create a Message Type (WE81)
4. Create valid Combination of Message & IDoc type(WE82)
5. Define Processing Code(WE41 for OUT / WE42 for IN)
6. Define Partner Profile(WE20)
Important Transaction Codes:
SALE - IMG ALE Configuration root
WE20 - Manually maintain partner profiles
BD64 - Maintain customer distribution model
BD71 - Distribute customer distribution model
SM59 - Create RFC Destinations
BDM5 - Consistency check (Transaction scenarios)
BD82 - Generate Partner Profiles
BD61 - Activate Change Pointers - Globally
BD50 - Activate Change Pointer for Msg Type
BD52 - Activate change pointer per change.doc object
BD59 - Allocation object type -> IDOC type
BD56 - Maintain IDOC Segment Filters
BD53 - Reduction of Message Types
BD21 - Select Change Pointer
BD87 - Status Monitor for ALE Messages
BDM5 - Consistency check (Transaction scenarios)
BD62 - Define rules
BD79 - Maintain rules
BD55 - Defining settings for IDoc conversion
WEDI - ALE IDoc Administration
WE21 - Ports in Idoc processing
WE60 - IDoc documentation
SARA - IDoc archiving (Object type IDOC)
WE47 - IDoc status maintenance
WE07 - IDoc statistics
BALE - ALE Distribution Administration
WE05 - IDoc overview
BD87 - Inbound IDoc reprocessing
BD88 - Outbound IDoc reprocessing
BDM2 - IDoc Trace
BDM7 - IDoc Audit Analysis
BD21 - Create IDocs from change pointers
SM58 - Schedule RFC Failures
Basic config for Distributed data:
BD64: Maintain a Distributed Model
BD82: Generate Partner Profile
BD64: Distribute the distribution Model
Programs
RBDMIDOC u2013 Creating IDoc Type from Change Pointers
RSEOUT00 u2013 Process all selected IDocs (EDI)
RBDAPP01 - Inbound Processing of IDocs Ready for Transfer
RSARFCEX - Execute Calls Not Yet Executed
RBDMOIND - Status Conversion with Successful tRFC Execution
RBDMANIN - Start error handling for non-posted IDocs
RBDSTATE - Send Audit Confirmations
FOr testing you can use WE19.
There are two filtering in IDoc.
Segment Filtering:
Segment filtering can be achieved using T/Code BD56. Here you can suppress a whole segment irrespective of data inside it . You have to give Message Type / Sender Prrtner / Receiver Partner.
Data Filtering:
Data filtering can be done in dustribution model (BD64) where you can restrict whole IDOCS or partials IDOCS to be send based on data in fields inside IDOC depending on whether the segment in which you filter is at the highest level or at a lower level. For example in MATMAS if you put a filter of E1MARCM for a particular plant , only data for this plant will go and other plants will be ignored.
Please check this link for more information.
http://help.sap.com//saphelp_470/helpdata/EN/0b/2a611c507d11d18ee90000e8366fc2/frameset.htm
Regards,
Shiva Kumar -
Hi anybody,
Please tell me what is IDOC and ALE? What pupose using IDOC and ALE?
Give me Example sample code of using IDOC and ALE.
Thanks
S.Muthu.Dear,
Here is some facts which will be helpful to clear yr concepts for ALE/IDOCs.
Data Creation in Idoc
IDocs are text encoded documents with a rigid structure that are used to exchange data between R/3 and a foreign system. Instead of calling a program in the destination system directly, the data is first packed into an IDoc and then sent to the receiving system, where it is analyzed and properly processed. Therefore an IDoc data exchange is always an asynchronous process. The significant difference between simple RFC-calls and IDoc data exchange is the fact, that every action performed on IDocs are protocolled by R/3 and IDocs can be reprocessed if an error occurred in one of the message steps.
While IDocs have to be understood as a data exchange protocol, EDI and ALE are typical use cases for IDocs. R/3 uses IDocs for both EDI and ALE to deliver data to the receiving system. ALE is basically the scheduling mechanism that defines when and between which partners and what kind of data will be exchanged on a regular or event triggered basis. Such a set-up is called an ALE-scenario.
IDoc is a intermediate document to exchange data between two SAP Systems.
An IDoc is simply a data container that is used to exchange information between any two processes that can understand the syntax and semantics of the data...
1.IDOCs are stored in the database. In the SAP system, IDOCs are stored in database tables.
2.IDOCs are independent of the sending and receiving systems.
3.IDOCs are independent of the direction of data exchange.
The two available process for IDOCs are
Outbound Process
Inbound Process
AND There are basically two types of IDOCs.
Basic IDOCs
Basic IDOC type defines the structure and format of the business document that is to be exchanged between two systems.
Extended IDOCs
Extending the functionality by adding more segments to existing Basic IDOCs.
*IDocs are structured ASCII files (or a virtual equivalent).
*Electronic Interchange Document
*They are the file format used by SAP R/3 to exchange data with foreign systems.
*Data Is transmitted in ASCII format, i.e. human readable form
*IDocs exchange messages
*IDocs are used like classical interface files
IDOC types are templates for specific message types depending on what is the business document, you want to exchange.
ALE (Application Linking and Enabling)
Ale Technology is SAPs technology to support distributed yet integrated processes across several SAP systems.
Distributed Process:
A distributed process is one in which part of a business process is carried out on one system and part on another. The two systems would exchange data with each other at appropriate points to stay synchronized.
Need for Distributed Process:
Business in Different Geographical Locations.
Non availability of dedicated network.
Cultural and language differences in Geographical locations.
Running of Mission-critical Applications (Like Maintenance downtime etc.).
Separate up gradation of Modules.
Distributed SAP SYSTEM CHALLENGES
A system that understands the syntax and semantics of the data. It was important from the very beginning to base the distribution of data on business rules, not on database replication techniques.
Distributed systems that can maintain their autonomy while being integrated as one logical SAP system. The systems should be able to operate independently and support logical processing of transactions and data.
Distributed systems that can handle different data models. A local implementation should be able to customize the system to meet its local needs.
Receiving systems that can handle their own problems and not tie up the sending system.
Systems that maintain continued operation in spite of network failure. Changes made to either system should be synchronized after the network connection is restored.
A sound technology and methodology that can be used in all distribution scenarios.
SAP Distributed environment:
ALE allows for efficient and reliable communication between distributed processes across physically separate SAP systems.
ALE is based on application to application integration using messaging architecture. A message defines data that is exchanged between two processes. IDocs are containers that hold data exchanged between the two systems.
Benefits of ALE:
Integration with non-SAP systems: ALE architecture allows third party applications to integrate with SAP system.
Reliable Distribution: Once message type created and the receiver of the message is determined, ALE delivers the message to the recipient. If there is any network problem it will buffer the message and delivers the message once the network is restored. It also ensures that the message is not delivered twice.
Release Upgrade: Any of the distributed system can be upgraded to the new release of SAP without affecting the functionality. The ALE layer ensures backward compatibility of messages exchanged between systems.
ALE Architecture:
It consists of an Outbound process, an Inbound process, and an Exception Handling process.
Outbound Process:
ALE Outbound Process in SAP sends data to one or more SAP Systems. It involves four steps.
1. Identify the need of IDoc: This step starts upon creating a application document, can relate to a change to a master data object.
2. Generate the Master IDoc: The document or master data to be sent is read from the database and formatted into an IDoc format. This IDoc is called as a Master IDoc.
3. Generate the Communication IDoc: The ALE Service layer generates a separate IDoc from the Master IDoc for each recipient who is interested in the data. Separate IDocs are generated because each recipient might demand a different version or a subset of the Master IDoc. These recipient-specific IDocs are called Communication IDocs and are stored in the database.
4. Deliver the Communication IDoc: The IDoc is delivered to the recipients using an asynchronous communication method. This allows the sending system to continue its processing without having to wait for the destination system to receiver or process the IDoc.
Inbound Process:
The inbound process receives an IDoc and creates a document in the system.
1. Store the IDoc in the database: The IDoc is received from the sending system and stored in the database. Then the IDoc goes through a basic integrity check and syntax check.
2. Invoke the Posting Module: The control information in the IDoc and configuration tables are read to determine the posting program. The IDoc is then transferred to its posting program.
3. Create the Document: The posting program reads the IDoc data and then creates a document in the system. The results are logged in the IDoc.
IDoc Types:
IDoc type structure can consist of several segments, and each segment can consist of several data fields. The IDoc structure defines the syntax of the data by specifying a list of permitted segments and arrangement of the segments. Segments define a set of fields and their format.
An IDoc is an instance of an IDoc Type and consists of three types of records.
i. One Control record: each IDoc has only one control record. The control record contains all the control information about an IDoc, including the IDoc number, the sender and recipient information, and information such as the message type it represents and IDoc type. The control record structure is same for all IDocs.
ii. One or Many Data records: An IDoc can have multiple data records, as defined by the IDoc structure. Segments translate into data records, which store application data, such as purchase order header information and purchase order detail lines.
iii. One or Many Status records: An IDoc can have multiple status records. Status record helps to determine whether an IDoc has any error.
Message in IDoc Type:
A Message represents a specific type of document transmitted between two partners.
Outbound Process in IDocs:
Outbound process used the following components to generate an IDoc. A customer model, and IDoc structure, selection programs, filter objects, conversion rules, a port definition, an RFC destination, a partner profile, service programs, and configuration tables.
The Customer Model:
A customer model is used to model a distribution scenario. In a customer model, you identify the systems involved in a distribution scenario and the message exchanged between the systems.
Message control:
Message control is a cross application technology used in pricing, account determination, material determination, and output determination. The output determination technique of Message control triggers the ALE for a business document. Message control separates the logic of generating IDocs from the
application logic.
Change Pointers:
The change pointers technique is based on the change document technique, which tracks changes made to key documents in SAP, such as the material master, customer master and sales order.
Changes made to a document are recorded in the change document header table CDHDR, and additional change pointers are written in the BDCP table for the changes relevant to ALE.
IDoc Structure:
A message is defined for data that is exchanged between two systems. The message type is based on one or more IDoc structures.
Selection Program:
Is typically implemented as function modules, are designed to extract application data and create a master IDoc. A selection program exists for each message type. A selection programs design depends on the triggering mechanism used in the process.
Filter Objects;
Filter Objects remove unwanted data for each recipient of the data basing on the recipients requirement.
Port Definition:
A port is used in an outbound process to define the medium in which documents are transferred to the destination system. ALE used a Transactional RFC port, which transfers data in memory buffers.
RFC Destination:
The RFC destination is a logical name used to define the characteristics of a communication link to a remote system on which a function needs to be executed.
Partner Profile:
A partner profile specifies the components used in an outbound process(logical name of the remote SAP system, IDoc Type, message type, TRFC port), an IDocs packet size, the mode in which the process sends an IDoc (batch versus immediate), and the person to be notified in case of error.
Service Programs and Configuration Tables:
The outbound process, being asynchronous, is essentially a sequence of several processes that work together. SAP provides service programs and configuration tables to link these programs and provide customizing options for an outbound process.
Process flow for Distributing Transactional Data:
Transactional data is distributed using two techniques: with Message control and without message control.
Process flow for Distributing Master Data:
Master data between SAP systems is distributed using two techniques: Stand alone Programs and Change Pointers.
Triggering the Outbound Process via Stand-Alone Programs:
Stand-Alone programs are started explicitly by a user to transmit data from one SAP system to another. Standard Programs for several master data objects exist in SAP. Ex. The material master data can be transferred using the RBDSEMAT program or transaction BD10.
The stand-alone programs provide a selection screen to specify the objects to be transferred and the receiving system. After the stand-alone program is executed, it calls the IDoc selection program with the specified parameters.
Triggering the Outbound Process via Change Pointers:
The change pointer technique is used to initiate the outbound process automatically when master data is created or changed.
A standard program, RBDMIDOC, is scheduled to run on a periodic basis to evaluate the change pointers for a message type and start the ALE process for distributing the master data to the appropriate destination. The RBDMIDOC program reads the table TBDME to determine the IDoc selection program for a message type.
Processing in the Application Layer:
The customer distribution model is consulted to make sure that a receiver has been defined for the message to be transmitted. If not, processing ends. If at least one receiver exists, the IDoc selection program reads the master data object from the database and creates a master IDoc from it. The master IDoc is stored in memory. The program then calls the ALE service layer by using the function module MASTER_IDOC_DISTRIBUTE, passing the master IDoc and the receiver information.
Processing in the ALE Interface Layer:
Processing in the ALE Layer consists of the following steps:
Receiver Determination: The determination of the receiver is done through Customer Distribution Model.
IDoc Filtering: if an IDoc filter is specified in the distribution model for a receiver, values in the filter are compared against the values in the IDoc data records. If a data record does not meet the filter criteria, it is dropped.
Segment Filtering: For each sender and receiver combination, a set of segments that are not required can be filtered out.
Field conversion: Field values in data records are converted by using the conversion rules specified for the segment.
Version change for segments: Segments are version-controlled. A new version of a segment always contains fields from the preceding version and fields added for the new version. Release in IDoc type field of the partner profile to determine the version of the segment to be generated.
Version change for IDocs: IDocs are also version controlled. The version is determined from the Basic Type field of the partner profile.
Communication IDocs generated: The final IDoc generated for a receiver after all the conversions and filtering operations is the communication IDoc. One master IDoc can have multiple communication IDocs depending on the number of receivers identified and the filter operations performed. IDoc gets the status record with a status code of 01 (IDoc Created).
Syntax check performed: IDoc goes through a syntax check and data integrity validation. If errors found the IDoc get the status of 26 (error during syntax check of IDoc Outbound). If no errors found the IDoc gets the status 30 (IDoc ready for dispatch ALE Service).
IDoc dispatched to the communication Layer: In the ALE process, IDocs are dispatched using the asynchronous RFC method, which means that the sending system does not await for data to be received or processed on the destination system. After IDocs have been transferred to the communication layer, they get a status code 01 (Data Passed to Port OK).
Processing in the Communication Layer:
To dispatch an IDoc to a destination system, the system reads the port definition specified in the partner profile to determine the destination system, which is then used to read the RFC destination. The RFC destination contains communication settings to log o to the remote SAP system. The sending system calls the INBOUND_IDOC_PROCESS function module asynchronously on the destination system and passes the IDoc data via the memory buffers.
Inbound Process in IDocs:
An inbound process used IDoc structure, posting programs, filter objects, conversion rules, a partner profile, service programs, and configuration tables to post an application document from an IDoc.
Posting Program:
Posting programs, which are implemented as function modules, read data from an IDoc and create an application document from it. A posting program exists for each message. Each posting program is assigned a process code. A process code can point to a function module or a work flow. In the standard program process codes always point to a function module.
Ex. The posting program for message type MATMAS is IDOC_INPUT_MATMAS which has a process code MATM.
Workflow:
A workflow represents a sequence of customized steps to be carried out for a process. The workflow management system is used to model the sequence, identify information required to carry out the steps and identify the person responsible for the dialog steps.
Partner Profile;
A partner profile specifies the components used in an inbound process (partner number, message type, and process code), the mode in which IDocs are processed (batch versus immediate), and the person to be notified in case of errors.
Process flow for the Inbound process via a Function Module:
In this process, IDocs are received from another system and passed to the posting function module directly.
1. Processing in the communication Layer:
The IDOC_INBOUND_ASYCHRONOUS program, triggered as a result of an RFC from the sending system, acts as the entry point for all inbound ALE processes. The IDoc to be processed is passed as an input parameter. Control is transferred to the ALE/EDI layer.
2. Processing in the ALE/EDI Interface Layer:
Basic integrity check: A basic integrity check is performed on the control record.
Segment Filtering and conversion: Filtering out unwanted segments and carry out any required conversion of field values.
Creation of Application IDoc: The application IDoc is created and stored in the database and a syntax check is performed. If there are errors it gets status code of 60 (Error during Syntax check of IDoc Inbound). At this point a tangible IDoc, which can be monitored via one of the monitoring transactions, is created and the IDoc gets status code 50 (IDoc Added).
IDoc Marked ready for Dispatch: IDoc gets the status code 64 (IDoc ready to be passed to application).
IDoc is passed to the posting program: The partner profile table is read. If the value of the Processing field is set to Process Immediately, the IDoc is passed to the posting program immediately using the program RBDAPP01.
3. Processing in the Posting Module:
The process code in the partner profile points to a posting module for the specific message in the IDoc. The posting program implemented as a function module either calls a standard SAP transaction by using the Call Transaction command for posting the document or invokes a direct input function module.
The results of execution are passed back via the function modules output parameters. If the posting is successful IDoc gets the status code 53 (Application Document Posted) or it gets status code 51 (Error: Application
How to create idoc?
*WE30 - you can create a IDOC type
To Create Idoc we need to follow these steps:
Create Segment ( WE31)
Create Idoc Type ( WE30 )
Create Message Type ( WE81 )
Assign Idoc Type to Message Type ( WE82 )
Creating a Segment
Go to transaction code WE31
Enter the name for your segment type and click on the Create icon
Type the short text
Enter the variable names and data elements
Save it and go back
Go to Edit -> Set Release
Follow steps to create more number of segments
Create IDOC Type
Go to transaction code WE30
Enter the Object Name, select Basic type and click Create icon
Select the create new option and enter a description for your basic IDOC type and press enter
Select the IDOC Name and click Create icon
The system prompts us to enter a segment type and its attributes
Choose the appropriate values and press Enter
The system transfers the name of the segment type to the IDOC editor.
Follow these steps to add more number of segments to Parent or as Parent-child relation
Save it and go back
Go to Edit -> Set release
Create Message Type
Go to transaction code WE81
Change the details from Display mode to Change mode
After selection, the system will give this message The table is cross-client (see Help for further info). Press Enter
Click New Entries to create new Message Type
Fill details
Save it and go back
Assign Message Type to IDoc Type
Go to transaction code WE82
Change the details from Display mode to Change mode
After selection, the system will give this message The table is cross-client (see Help for further info). Press Enter.
Click New Entries to create new Message Type.
Fill details
Save it and go back
An IDOC with data, will have to be triggered by the application that is trying to send out the data.
Try this..Hope this will help.
SAP ALE & IDOC<<<<
Steps to configuration(Basis) >>
1. Create Logical System (LS) for each applicable ALE-enabled client
2. Link client to Logical System on the respective servers
3. Create background user, to be used by ALE(with authorizaton for ALE postings)
4. Create RFC Destinations(SM59)
5. Ports in Idoc processing(WE21)
6. Generate partner profiles for sending system
The functional configuration(Tcode: SALE)
Create a Customer Distribution Model (CDM);
Add appropriate message types and filters to the CDM;
Generate outbound partner profiles;
Distribute the CDM to the receiving systems; and
Generate inbound partner profiles on each of the clients.
Steps to customize a new IDoc >>>
1. Define IDoc Segment (WE31)
2. Convert Segments into an IDoc type (WE30)
3. Create a Message Type (WE81)
4. Create valid Combination of Message & IDoc type(WE82)
5. Define Processing Code(WE41 for OUT / WE42 for IN)
6. Define Partner Profile(WE20)
Important Transaction Codes:
SALE - IMG ALE Configuration root
WE20 - Manually maintain partner profiles
BD64 - Maintain customer distribution model
BD71 - Distribute customer distribution model
SM59 - Create RFC Destinations
BDM5 - Consistency check (Transaction scenarios)
BD82 - Generate Partner Profiles
BD61 - Activate Change Pointers - Globally
BD50 - Activate Change Pointer for Msg Type
BD52 - Activate change pointer per change.doc object
BD59 - Allocation object type -> IDOC type
BD56 - Maintain IDOC Segment Filters
BD53 - Reduction of Message Types
BD21 - Select Change Pointer
BD87 - Status Monitor for ALE Messages
BDM5 - Consistency check (Transaction scenarios)
BD62 - Define rules
BD79 - Maintain rules
BD55 - Defining settings for IDoc conversion
WEDI - ALE IDoc Administration
WE21 - Ports in Idoc processing
WE60 - IDoc documentation
SARA - IDoc archiving (Object type IDOC)
WE47 - IDoc status maintenance
WE07 - IDoc statistics
BALE - ALE Distribution Administration
WE05 - IDoc overview
BD87 - Inbound IDoc reprocessing
BD88 - Outbound IDoc reprocessing
BDM2 - IDoc Trace
BDM7 - IDoc Audit Analysis
BD21 - Create IDocs from change pointers
SM58 - Schedule RFC Failures
Basic config for Distributed data:
BD64: Maintain a Distributed Model
BD82: Generate Partner Profile
BD64: Distribute the distribution Model
Programs
RBDMIDOC Creating IDoc Type from Change Pointers
This report creates IDocs from the change pointers for the specified message type. It then sends them to the receiving system and flags the change pointers as processed in respect of the specified message type.
The receiving systems for the specified message type are determined from the customer distribution model.
Output:-The report outputs information about the number of master IDocs and communication IDocs created.
RSEOUT00 Process all selected IDocs (EDI) Report for generation of files for EDI outbound processing.The report processes the IDocs available in the system with the status 'to be processed'. The IDocs are selected according to the selection options and parameters specified.
It is important that you make sure that only test messages or productive messages are selected.
The IDocs are processed in various files for various output modes and for various ports. The names of the files are created according to the naming definition for the outbound file. This definition is determined in the port definition.
RBDAPP01 - Inbound Processing of IDocs Ready for Transfer
RSARFCEX - Execute Calls Not Yet Executed
RBDMOIND - Status Conversion with Successful tRFC Execution
RBDMANIN - Start error handling for non-posted IDocs
RBDSTATE - Send Audit Confirmations
For testing you can use WE19.
Hope This will be helpful,
Best Regards ,
P Singh -
Hi,
If ALE is used only for distributed processing and within sap to sap, still we can use it for sap to non-sap, if this is the case, where EDI would come.
For ALE only, we would be declaring as logical systems, but i have seen they have declared EDI also as logical systems and have used trfc ports. Real difference between EDI and ALE is confusing.
Please help me out.Hi Anandha,
Differences :
ALE(Application Link Enabling) refers to the losely coupled systems whereas the EDI speaks about the Electronic Document Exchange. We need to enable ALE in order to use the EDI feature. ALE builds the bridge and EDI is the means by which the data moves in and out of the SAP system just like vehicles moving over the bridge. IDOC(Intermediate Documents) are the data containers which will be moving in and out of SAP carrying data.
Thus summarising we need to establish ALE between the systems in order to use EDI between them. In case we need to use EDI between SAP and someother target system then we need a EDI subsystem which understands these IDOCs and converts into the format understood by the target system.
EDI and ALE are typical use cases for IDocs. R/3 uses IDocs for both EDI and ALE to deliver data to the receiving system. ALE is basically the scheduling mechanism that defines when and between which partners and what kind of data will be exchanged on a regular or event triggered basis. Such a set-up is called an ALE-scenario.
The philosophical difference between EDI and ALE can be pinned as follows: If we send data to an external partner, we generally speak of EDI, while ALE is a mechanism to reliable replicate data between trusting systems to store a redundant copy of the IDoc data. The difference is made clear, when we think of a purchase order that is sent as an IDoc. If we send the purchase order to a supplier then the supplier will store the purchase order as a sales order. However, if we send the purchase order via ALE to another R/3 system, then the receiving system will store the purchase order also as a purchase order. -
Hi,
Plz tell me clearly what are all the diff btn RSA5 and RSA6?
And also Explain me with Transaction codes, the data flow from R/3 to BI.
Points will be awarded.Hi,
RSA5---- transfer business content data source
**make avail these data source to bw side for extracting data.
RSA6---Data source enhancement
Enhancement of data source to include extra fields in it.. editing, displaying,test extraction of data source (rsa3) these are functions available in rsa6.
check the following link for data flow
http://help.sap.com/saphelp_nw04/helpdata/en/28/4c553c42360a40e10000000a114084/frameset.htm
Regards
Harikrishna N -
Hi
I am learning some stuff on ALE,EDI and IDOCS... are there any good sites which gives clear step by step procedure for the above.
Thanks in Advance.
SudhiHi Sudhi
You can find details on SAP courses from your country's sap.com site. You can find links from http://www.sap.com/contactsap/countries/index.aspx .
Also some Education Partners of SAP give courses. Some info about these will also be there...
Regards...
*--Serdar
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