Search Results mtl_cross_references_b




The MTL_CROSS_REFERENCES_B table in Oracle E-Business Suite (EBS) versions 12.1.1 and 12.2.2 is a critical repository for managing cross-references between items and external identifiers, facilitating seamless integration with third-party systems, legacy applications, or trading partners. This table stores the core attributes of cross-referenced item data, while its companion table, MTL_CROSS_REFERENCES_TL, handles translated descriptions. Below is a detailed breakdown of its structure, functionality, and significance in Oracle EBS.

Table Structure and Key Columns

The MTL_CROSS_REFERENCES_B table includes the following key columns:
  • CROSS_REFERENCE_ID: Primary key, uniquely identifying each cross-reference record.
  • INVENTORY_ITEM_ID: Links to MTL_SYSTEM_ITEMS_B.INVENTORY_ITEM_ID, associating the cross-reference with an Oracle item.
  • ORGANIZATION_ID: Specifies the inventory organization where the item is defined.
  • CROSS_REFERENCE_TYPE: Categorizes the reference (e.g., "CUSTOMER," "SUPPLIER," or "GENERIC").
  • CROSS_REFERENCE: Stores the external identifier (e.g., customer part number).
  • STATUS: Indicates whether the cross-reference is active ('A') or inactive ('I').
  • CREATION_DATE, CREATED_BY, LAST_UPDATE_DATE, LAST_UPDATED_BY: Standard Oracle audit columns.

Functional Role in Oracle EBS

The table serves multiple purposes:
  1. Interoperability: Enables mapping between Oracle item codes and external identifiers (e.g., customer/supplier part numbers), critical for procurement, order management, and invoicing.
  2. Data Synchronization: Supports integration with external systems like EDI, PLM, or ERP systems by maintaining consistent item references.
  3. Reporting and Analytics: Facilitates consolidated reporting by correlating internal and external item data.

Integration with Oracle Modules

MTL_CROSS_REFERENCES_B is leveraged across several EBS modules:
  • Inventory: Validates items during transactions using external IDs.
  • Order Management: Automatically translates customer part numbers to Oracle items during order entry.
  • Purchasing: Maps supplier part numbers to internal items for PO creation.

Technical Considerations

  • Indexes: Key indexes include MTL_CROSS_REFERENCES_B_U1 (on CROSS_REFERENCE_ID) and MTL_CROSS_REFERENCES_B_N1 (on INVENTORY_ITEM_ID and ORGANIZATION_ID).
  • APIs:
    • INV_ITEM_CROSS_REF_PUB for CRUD operations.
    • INV_CROSS_REFERENCE_PKG for validation logic.
  • Performance: Large datasets may require partitioning or periodic archiving.

Customization and Extensions

Common extensions include:
  • Adding custom cross-reference types via FND_LOOKUP_VALUES.
  • Developing triggers to enforce business rules (e.g., unique customer-item mappings).

Conclusion

The MTL_CROSS_REFERENCES_B table is a foundational component of Oracle EBS, enabling robust item identification across ecosystems. Its design supports scalability, integration, and compliance with multi-enterprise collaboration requirements. Proper utilization of this table enhances operational efficiency and data consistency in complex supply chain environments.