How To Fix 5A218 - Specify a recurrence frequency and factor

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: 5A - Basis Personnel Management

• Message number: 218

• Message text: Specify a recurrence frequency and factor

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message 5A218 - Specify a recurrence frequency and factor ?

  The SAP error message 5A218 ("Specify a recurrence frequency and factor") typically occurs in the context of scheduling or planning tasks within SAP, particularly when dealing with periodic activities or recurring events. This error indicates that the system requires you to define how often a particular task should recur (the frequency) and the specific factor that determines the intervals of recurrence.
  Cause:
  The error arises when:
  
  You are trying to create or modify a scheduling or planning entry (like a maintenance plan, billing plan, etc.) but have not specified the necessary parameters for recurrence.
  The required fields for frequency (e.g., daily, weekly, monthly) and the factor (e.g., every 2 days, every 3 weeks) are either left blank or incorrectly filled.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, follow these steps:
  
  Access the relevant transaction: Go to the transaction where you encountered the error (e.g., IP01 for maintenance plans, or another relevant transaction).
  Locate the Recurrence Fields: Find the fields related to recurrence frequency and factor. This is usually in the scheduling or planning section of the screen.
  Specify Frequency: Choose the appropriate frequency from the dropdown menu (e.g., daily, weekly, monthly).
  Specify Factor: Enter the factor that corresponds to the frequency you selected (e.g., if you selected weekly, you might enter '2' for every two weeks).
  Save Changes: After entering the required information, save your changes and check if the error persists.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Documentation: Refer to SAP Help documentation for detailed information on scheduling and planning in your specific module (e.g., PM for Plant Maintenance, SD for Sales and Distribution).
  User Roles: Ensure that you have the necessary permissions to create or modify the scheduling entries.
  Consult with Colleagues: If you are unsure about the correct frequency and factor to use, consult with colleagues or a supervisor who may have more experience with the specific task you are working on.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or additional guidance related to this error message.
  
  If the problem persists after following these steps, consider reaching out to your SAP support team for further assistance.