Creating a Global Number Range in INT4 Suite

Purpose

This guide explains how to configure a global number range in Int4 Suite and assign it to an automation object variable. Once set up, the number range generates a unique, auto-incrementing value every time a test case runs.

The primary use case is IDoc processing in pipeline interfaces. SAP requires each IDoc to carry a unique document number. Because multiple interfaces can trigger IDoc creation, a shared centrally managed number range prevents duplicates regardless of which interface is active.

This approach applies to any scenario where a single unique identifier must be shared across more than one automation object.

Step 1: Create the Global Number Range

1. Open the INT4 Suite Fiori launchpad.

2. Go to the Configuration tab.

3. Click Define Global Number Ranges.

4. Click New Entry.

5. Enter a name for the range, for example: IDOC_NUMBER.

6. Set a prefix if required. In the IDoc example, a six-digit prefix is used.

7. Set Range Low. The value combined with the prefix should produce the total digit count your interface expects. For a 16-digit IDoc number with a 6-digit prefix, the low range uses 10 digits.

8. Set Range High to a value above the expected maximum.

9. Save the entry.

Note: Align the range boundaries with other teams before saving. Overlapping ranges across teams will cause conflicts.

Step 2: Assign the Number Range to an Automation Object Variable

1. Open the automation object you are preparing, for example an IDoc pipeline process.

2. Create a new variable. Click Create, provide a name and description for the variable.

3. Click Edit on the new variable.

4. Add a Read Variable from Saved Message action. Use the XPath helper or type the IDoc number path directly, for example the EDI_DC40/DOCNUM field.

5. Add a Replace action. Set the replacement source to Generate Value from Global Number Range.

6. Select the number range created in Step 1.

7. Save the variable.

Result

Every time the test case executes, the automation object reads the current IDoc number from the input message and replaces it with the next available value from the global number range. The counter increments automatically on each run, ensuring uniqueness across all interfaces that share the same range.

Cautionary Notes

• Ensure that the range values you set do not overlap with those used by other teams.

• Double-check the prefix and range settings to avoid conflicts in IDOC numbers.

Tips for Efficiency

• Regularly review and update the global number ranges to accommodate any changes in team requirements.

• Document any changes made to the number ranges for future reference.