How To Fix B1287 - Number of maximum attempts to start parallel processes has been exceeded

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: B1 - ALE group messages

• Message number: 287

• Message text: Number of maximum attempts to start parallel processes has been exceeded

What causes this issue?

An IDoc packet could not be forwarded for parallel processing within
the specified time.

System Response

Program terminates.

How to fix this error?

Timeout may be set too low.
Check the server group definition.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message B1287 - Number of maximum attempts to start parallel processes has been exceeded ?

  The SAP error message B1287 indicates that the maximum number of attempts to start parallel processes has been exceeded. This typically occurs in scenarios where SAP is trying to execute parallel processing tasks, such as background jobs or parallel processing in certain transactions, and it fails to start the required number of processes within the allowed attempts.
  Cause:
  
  System Resource Limitations: The system may not have enough resources (CPU, memory) to start the required parallel processes.
  Configuration Issues: The configuration settings for parallel processing may be set too low, or there may be restrictions in place that limit the number of parallel processes.
  Lock Contention: There may be locks on resources that prevent the processes from starting.
  Job Scheduling Conflicts: Other jobs may be running that are consuming the available resources, leading to failures in starting new parallel processes.
  Errors in the Job Definition: There may be issues with the job definition or the parameters being passed to the parallel processes.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check System Resources: Monitor the system's CPU and memory usage to ensure that there are enough resources available. You can use transaction codes like ST03N (Workload Analysis) or SM50 (Process Overview) to check the current load.
  Adjust Configuration Settings: Review and adjust the configuration settings for parallel processing. This can be done in transaction RZ10 (Profile Parameters) or RZ11 (Profile Parameter Maintenance) to increase the maximum number of parallel processes allowed.
  Review Job Definitions: Check the job definitions for any errors or misconfigurations. Ensure that the parameters and settings are correct.
  Check for Locks: Use transaction SM12 (Display and Delete Locks) to check for any locks that may be preventing the processes from starting. If necessary, release the locks.
  Reschedule Jobs: If there are too many jobs running simultaneously, consider rescheduling some of them to reduce the load on the system.
  Increase Timeout Settings: If applicable, consider increasing the timeout settings for starting parallel processes.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error or provide additional troubleshooting steps.
  System Logs: Review system logs (transaction SLG1) for any additional error messages or warnings that may provide more context about the issue.
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums to see if other users have encountered similar issues and what solutions they have found.
  
  If the problem persists after trying the above solutions, it may be necessary to involve your SAP Basis team or SAP support for further investigation.