Informix Error -16389: File name exceeds maximum length.
Cause and resolution
File name exceeds maximum length.
A filename cannot exceed 80 characters. If the name exceeds this length (if the message is not the result of some mistake in punctuation), you must rename it before you use it with the Debugger.
Oninit® Troubleshooting Guidance
Reasons / Common Causes
-16389 fires when a filename exceeds 80 characters — per the official guidance.
- A filename longer than 80 characters, per the official guidance — the direct, only cause, unless the message resulted from a punctuation mistake.
Solutions / Resolution
- Rename the file to 80 characters or fewer before using it with the Debugger, per the official guidance, if the length is genuine.
- Check for a punctuation mistake if the actual filename isn't that long.
Examples
N/A
No specific triggering statement is documented beyond an over-long filename.
Diagnostic Checks
- Check the filename's length, and check for stray punctuation if it doesn't actually exceed 80 characters.
Related Errors / Related Topics
- -16329 — "Pathname too long." A related length-restriction error, on full pathnames (70 characters) rather than bare filenames (80 characters).
A filename exceeds 80 characters — rename it, or check for a punctuation mistake.