Introduction

CloudFeed is a powerful SAP data integration solution that simplifies the process of extracting and managing SAP data across different environments. Whether you're working with legacy SAP systems or modern S/4HANA implementations, CloudFeed provides a streamlined approach to data integration.

Basic Concepts and Terminology

SAP Integration Components

• CloudFeed SAP Connector: The core component that runs as an SAP addon in its own namespace, providing REST API capabilities for data extraction and integration.

• Application Layer: The level at which CloudFeed operates, ensuring secure and efficient data access without requiring direct database access.

• SAP Environment: The complete SAP ecosystem where CloudFeed integrates, including the application server and database layers.

Key Features

• REST API Interface: A modern, accessible API layer that simplifies data extraction and integration processes.

• Table Extraction Capabilities:

  • Support for all SAP tables, including custom tables (Z*/Y*)

  • Both snapshot and incremental data extraction options

  • Fast and efficient data retrieval mechanisms

• Cloud Integration:

  • Native support for major cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP)

  • Multiple deployment scenarios (Push/Pull capabilities)

  • Secure data transfer protocols

Operation Modes

1. Data Pull Mode:

   • Initiated from the cloud network

   • Requests data from SAP environment

   • Suitable for on-demand data requirements

2. Data Push Mode:

   • Initiated from the SAP or Cloud environment

   • Actively pushes data to cloud services

   • Ideal for frequent data synchronization and secure environments, where there is no connection to SAP system publicly.

Authorization and Security

• Table-Level Authorization: Granular control over which tables users can access

• Resource Management: Built-in checks for system resource availability

• Secure Communication: Encrypted data transfer between SAP and cloud environments

API Concepts

• Exploration Requests: Commands to discover and understand available data

  • Table listing

  • Schema inspection

  • Data preview capabilities

• Extraction Requests: Methods to retrieve actual data

  • Batch extraction

  • Status monitoring

  • Log access

  • Cloud platform-specific extractions

System Requirements

• Supported SAP Versions: 4.6C to S/4HANA

• Mininum SAP_BASIS level is 7.30 for CloudFeed Connector and 4.6C for CloudFeed Bridge

• Minimum System Resources:

  • At least 3 available background and dialog processes

  • Sufficient network bandwidth for data transfer

  • Appropriate SAP authorizations for connector installation

Next Steps

After familiarizing yourself with these basic concepts, you can:

1. Plan your integration architecture

2. Set up necessary authorizations

3. Install the CloudFeed SAP Connector

4. Configure your first data extraction

For detailed information about each of these steps, please refer to their respective sections in the documentation.