Connector Improvement: SAP VARBINARY column - Implicit Conversion to VARCHAR for SAP Hana connection in HVR
AnsweredHi,
HVR currently provides implicit conversion for SAP Decimal Float datatypes (D16R/D34R) from VARBINARY to VARCHAR(42), but this functionality does not extend to general VARBINARY columns containing binary data such as UUIDs, GUIDs, and other encoded identifiers.
We request the extension of HVR's implicit conversion functionality to support SAP VARBINARY columns too, enabling automatic conversion to VARCHAR format during data replication. This enhancement would significantly improve analytics capabilities for SAP-sourced data in downstream applications.
Problem Statement
SAP tables (VBFA) contain critical VARBINARY columns storing essential business identifiers (RUUID, GUID fields, binary encoded identifiers) that are vital for cross-table joins, document traceability, audit trails, and business process analysis. Current HVR implicit conversion only supports SAP Decimal Float datatypes(RD-689156), leaving VARBINARY columns unsupported.
Operational Challenges:
- Manual conversion attempts result in data scrambling and value corruption
- Increased maintenance overhead from workaround solutions
- Risk of data integrity loss during transformation attempts
Expected Behavior
- VARBINARY(16) → VARCHAR(32) or VARCHAR(42) based on encoding
- Automatic detection of VARBINARY columns during catalog discovery
- Seamless conversion during replication process
This feature request builds upon the successful implementation of SAP Decimal Float implicit conversion (RD-689156) by extending the same methodology to VARBINARY columns. The enhancement would provide:
- Consistent User Experience: Similar configuration approach as existing Decimal Float conversion
- Broad Applicability: Support for various VARBINARY column types across SAP tables
- Enterprise Readiness: Seamless integration with modern analytics platforms
- Operational Excellence: Reduced manual intervention and improved data reliability
We believe this enhancement would significantly benefit the SAP customer base and align with HVR's commitment to providing comprehensive SAP data replication solutions.
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Hi Himanshu,
Thank you for the well-described requirement. Handling varbinaries are a known challenge. Engineering will take a look at your request and come back ASAP.
Best regards,
Edwin
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