ABAP CDS View ENTITY: Modern CDS View Definition

SAP ABAP CDS View – ENTITY

In ABAP Core Data Services (CDS), the DEFINE VIEW ENTITY syntax was introduced as an improved way to define CDS views. It replaces the traditional DEFINE VIEW approach and provides better flexibility, enhanced lifecycle management, and optimized performance.

🔹 Key Differences Between `DEFINE VIEW` and `DEFINE VIEW ENTITY`

Feature	`DEFINE VIEW` (Old)	`DEFINE VIEW ENTITY` (New)
SQL View Creation	Creates a SQL view in the database	No SQL view is created
Performance	Slightly slower due to SQL view	Faster due to direct DB access
Flexibility	Limited for future enhancements	More adaptable for SAP updates
Usage	Preferred for traditional ABAP scenarios	Recommended for modern applications

🔹 Syntax for `DEFINE VIEW ENTITY`

@AccessControl.authorizationCheck: #CHECK
define view entity ZDEMO_CDS_ENTITY as select from sflight {
    key carrid,
    key connid,
    fldate,
    price
}

🔹 Explanation:

✅ Uses DEFINE VIEW ENTITY instead of DEFINE VIEW. ✅ No SQL view name needed (@AbapCatalog.sqlViewName is not required). ✅ Improved performance & system upgrade compatibility.

🔹 Benefits of `DEFINE VIEW ENTITY`

✅ No SQL View Dependency – Avoids redundant database objects. ✅ Optimized for Future SAP Updates – Ensures better lifecycle management. ✅ Enhanced Performance – Directly retrieves data from the database. ✅ Simpler Definition – Reduces unnecessary annotations.

🔹 When to Use `DEFINE VIEW ENTITY`?

For new CDS view developments in S/4HANA and future SAP releases.
When SQL view creation is unnecessary.
For better system upgrades and compatibility with evolving SAP technologies.

🔹 Key Differences Between DEFINE VIEW and DEFINE VIEW ENTITY

🔹 Syntax for DEFINE VIEW ENTITY

🔹 Explanation:

🔹 Benefits of DEFINE VIEW ENTITY

🔹 When to Use DEFINE VIEW ENTITY?

🔹 Key Differences Between `DEFINE VIEW` and `DEFINE VIEW ENTITY`

🔹 Syntax for `DEFINE VIEW ENTITY`

🔹 Benefits of `DEFINE VIEW ENTITY`

🔹 When to Use `DEFINE VIEW ENTITY`?