How To Fix APPL_MM_PUR_INFOREC016 - Enter category number

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: APPL_MM_PUR_INFOREC - Manage Info Records Messages

• Message number: 016

• Message text: Enter category number

Self-Explanatory Message

Since SAP believes that this specific error message is 'self-explanatory,' no more information has been given.The majority of messages in the SAP system have a message text, however this is frequently insufficient to comprehend or resolve the problem.

To make things easier, more detailed information is frequently added to describe the issue, how to fix it, and the necessary steps or configuration modifications.

Unfortunately, there isn't any extra information in this error notice.

What else can you do?

First, use our AnswerBot below to get a possible cause and solution (requires a premium subscription).

Also, review the in-depth Common Questions & Answers listed below; you could discover a solution there or be able to connect with others who have faced similar challenges.

You can also try searching the SAP support portal (support.sap.com) but you need a special user ID to access it. It is possible that an SAP support note exists that provides additional details about the mistake or even steps for fixing it.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message APPL_MM_PUR_INFOREC016 - Enter category number ?

  The SAP error message APPL_MM_PUR_INFOREC016 with the description "Enter category number" typically occurs in the context of creating or processing purchase orders, purchase requisitions, or information records in the Materials Management (MM) module. This error indicates that a required field, specifically the category number, has not been filled in.
  Cause:
  The error is triggered when the system expects a category number to be entered, but it is missing. The category number is often used to classify the type of information record or to specify the nature of the transaction being processed. This could happen due to:
  
  User Input Error: The user may have overlooked entering the category number.
  Configuration Issues: The system may not be properly configured to handle the category number for the specific transaction.
  Missing Data: The necessary data or settings related to the category number may not be set up in the system.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Enter the Category Number: 
  
  Go back to the transaction where the error occurred and ensure that you enter a valid category number in the appropriate field.
  
  
  
  Check Configuration:
  
  If you are unsure about what category number to enter, consult with your SAP MM configuration team or refer to the documentation to understand the valid category numbers for your specific business processes.
  
  
  
  Review User Roles and Authorizations:
  
  Ensure that the user has the necessary permissions to enter the category number. Sometimes, restrictions in user roles can lead to incomplete data entry.
  
  
  
  Consult SAP Documentation:
  
  Refer to SAP Help or documentation specific to your version of SAP for detailed information on category numbers and their significance in the context of your transaction.
  
  
  
  Contact Support:
  
  If the issue persists after checking the above points, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting with SAP experts for further assistance.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Category Numbers: These are often used in various SAP transactions to categorize items, services, or transactions. Understanding the specific categories relevant to your organization is crucial.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with the transaction codes related to the MM module, such as ME21N (Create Purchase Order), ME51N (Create Purchase Requisition), and ME11 (Create Info Record).
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that might address known issues or provide additional guidance related to this error message.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the error and continue with your transaction in SAP.