How To Fix >4678 - Period keys &1 and &2 are in different chains

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: >4 - SAP File Transfer Protocol

• Message number: 678

• Message text: Period keys &1 and &2 are in different chains

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message >4678 - Period keys &1 and &2 are in different chains ?

  The SAP error message 4678 indicates that there is a mismatch between period keys in different chains. This typically occurs in the context of controlling (CO) or financial accounting (FI) modules, particularly when dealing with period-end closing processes or when trying to post transactions that involve different fiscal periods or chains.
  Cause:
  The error arises when you attempt to perform an operation (like posting a transaction) that involves two different period keys that belong to different chains. In SAP, a "chain" refers to a sequence of periods that are linked together for reporting or processing purposes. If the periods are not aligned or are from different chains, the system will not allow the operation to proceed.
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Check Period Settings: Verify the period settings in your controlling or financial accounting configuration. Ensure that the periods you are trying to use are correctly defined and belong to the same chain.
  
  
  Review Transaction Data: Look at the transaction data you are trying to post. Ensure that all entries are using the same period key and that they are aligned with the same chain.
  
  
  Adjust Periods: If necessary, adjust the periods in your transaction or configuration to ensure they are consistent. This may involve changing the period key in your transaction to match the other entries.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for specific details on how period keys and chains are defined in your system. This can provide insights into how to properly configure or adjust your settings.
  
  
  Check for Customizations: If your SAP system has custom developments or enhancements, check if any of these could be affecting the period handling. Custom code might inadvertently lead to such mismatches.
  
  
  Contact SAP Support: If the issue persists and you cannot identify the cause, consider reaching out to SAP support for assistance. They can provide more detailed guidance based on your specific system configuration.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: You may want to use transaction codes like OB52 (to maintain the posting periods) or KAH1 (to check controlling area settings) to investigate further.
  Documentation: SAP Help Portal and SAP Notes can provide additional context and troubleshooting steps for this error.
  User Forums: Engaging with SAP community forums can also yield insights from other users who may have encountered similar issues.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the root cause of the error and implement a solution to resolve it.