How To Fix AP272 - Special characters not allowed next to each other in coding mask

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: AP - Investment program messages

• Message number: 272

• Message text: Special characters not allowed next to each other in coding mask

What causes this issue?

You tried to create a coding mask that contains at least two special
characters (&V1&) next to each other.
Special characters are intended to optically separate significant
segments of the position ID. Since one special character is enough for
this purpose, two or more special characters are not allowed next to
each other.

System Response

The coding mask is not created.

How to fix this error?

Do not create coding masks that have two or more special characters in
a row.

Procedure for System Administrators

The system issues an error message and will not allow you to continue with this transaction until the error is resolved.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message AP272 - Special characters not allowed next to each other in coding mask ?

  The SAP error message AP272, which states "Special characters not allowed next to each other in coding mask," typically occurs when you are trying to enter a coding mask (such as a key or identifier) that contains special characters placed next to each other without any alphanumeric characters in between. This is a validation error that ensures that the coding mask adheres to specific formatting rules.
  Cause:
  The error is triggered when:
  
  You have entered a coding mask that contains two or more special characters in succession (e.g., @@, !!, ##, etc.).
  The coding mask does not conform to the expected format defined by the system, which usually requires a mix of alphanumeric characters and special characters.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Review the Coding Mask: Check the coding mask you are trying to enter. Look for any instances of special characters that are adjacent to each other.
  
  
  Modify the Mask: Adjust the coding mask to ensure that there are no consecutive special characters. For example:
  
  Change @@123 to @123 or A@123.
  Change 123!!456 to 123!456 or 123!@456.
  
  
  
  Use Valid Characters: Ensure that the coding mask contains a valid combination of alphanumeric characters and special characters, following the rules set by your organization or the SAP system.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: If you are unsure about the valid format for the coding mask, refer to the SAP documentation or your organization's guidelines for coding masks.
  
  
  Test Changes: After making the necessary adjustments, try saving or processing the entry again to see if the error persists.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any specific updates or patches related to this error message.
  Transaction Codes: If you are working within a specific transaction code, ensure that you are following the guidelines for that transaction.
  User Roles and Permissions: Sometimes, the ability to create or modify coding masks may be restricted based on user roles. Ensure you have the necessary permissions.
  
  If the issue continues after following these steps, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting with a technical expert who can provide further assistance.