How To Fix AY169 - You cannot create multiple assets using external number assignment

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: AY - Deprec. simulation - maint. module (AIPS) /gen. master data

• Message number: 169

• Message text: You cannot create multiple assets using external number assignment

What causes this issue?

You want to create multiple similar assets. However, the asset class
has external number assignment. This number assignment specifies
external number assignment for both main asset master records and
sub-number master records.

System Response

The entry is rejected.

How to fix this error?

Either create only one asset master record, or choose a different asset
class.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message AY169 - You cannot create multiple assets using external number assignment ?

  The SAP error message AY169, "You cannot create multiple assets using external number assignment," typically occurs when you are trying to create multiple asset records in SAP using an external number assignment method, which is not allowed in certain configurations.
  Cause:
  
  
  External Number Assignment: This error arises when the system is set to use external number assignment for asset creation, and you attempt to create multiple assets in a single transaction. SAP requires that each asset with an external number be created individually to ensure that each asset number is unique and properly assigned.
  
  
  Configuration Settings: The configuration settings in the Asset Accounting module may restrict the creation of multiple assets with external number assignment.
  
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Create Assets Individually: The simplest solution is to create each asset individually rather than trying to create multiple assets at once. This ensures that each asset receives a unique external number.
  
  
  Check Configuration: If you need to create multiple assets at once, consider changing the configuration settings to allow for internal number assignment instead. This can be done in the following way:
  
  Go to the SAP Customizing Implementation Guide (IMG).
  Navigate to Financial Accounting (New) > Asset Accounting > Master Data > Define Number Ranges for Assets.
  Check the settings for number ranges and see if you can switch to internal number assignment for the asset creation process.
  
  
  
  Use Batch Input or BAPIs: If you need to create multiple assets and want to maintain external number assignment, consider using batch input sessions or BAPIs (Business Application Programming Interfaces) that can handle the creation of assets in a more controlled manner.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: Review SAP documentation or consult with your SAP Basis or Functional team to ensure that the settings align with your business requirements.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: You may encounter this error while using transaction codes like AS01 (Create Asset) or AS11 (Create Sub-Asset).
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that might address this issue or provide additional guidance.
  User Authorization: Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to create assets in the system, as this can sometimes lead to unexpected errors.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the AY169 error and successfully create the required asset records in SAP.