How To Fix BA261 - No format descriptions exist for structure &1 in this file

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: BA - Data Archiving

• Message number: 261

• Message text: No format descriptions exist for structure &1 in this file

What causes this issue?

The archive file currently being read contains data on structure &V1&.
There is no format description in the header of the archive file for
this structure.

System Response

The Archive Development Kit (ADK) cannot read the data for this
structure.

How to fix this error?

Report this information to SAP.

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 BA261 - No format descriptions exist for structure &1 in this file ?

  The SAP error message BA261, which states "No format descriptions exist for structure &1 in this file," typically occurs in the context of data transfer or data processing, particularly when dealing with batch input or data files. This error indicates that the system cannot find the necessary format descriptions for the specified structure in the file being processed.
  Cause:
  
  Missing Format Descriptions: The format descriptions for the specified structure are not defined in the system. This could happen if the structure is new or if the necessary configuration has not been completed.
  Incorrect File or Structure Name: The file being processed may not match the expected structure name, leading to the system being unable to find the corresponding format descriptions.
  Configuration Issues: There may be issues with the configuration of the data transfer process, such as missing or incorrect settings in the relevant transaction codes or configuration tables.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Format Descriptions: Verify that the format descriptions for the specified structure exist in the system. You can do this by checking the relevant configuration settings in transaction codes like SE11 (Data Dictionary) or SE78 (SAP ArchiveLink).
  Define Format Descriptions: If the format descriptions are missing, you may need to create them. This can involve defining the structure in the Data Dictionary and ensuring that the necessary format descriptions are associated with it.
  Review File and Structure Names: Ensure that the file being processed is correctly named and that it corresponds to the expected structure. Check for any typos or discrepancies in naming conventions.
  Check Configuration Settings: Review the configuration settings related to the data transfer process. Ensure that all necessary parameters are correctly set up and that there are no missing entries in the configuration tables.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for guidance on how to define format descriptions and troubleshoot related issues.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as SE11, SE78, and SM37 (for monitoring jobs) to help diagnose and resolve the issue.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message. SAP Notes can provide specific guidance or updates that may resolve the issue.
  Community Forums: Consider reaching out to SAP community forums or support channels for additional insights or similar experiences from other users.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the BA261 error and implement a solution to resolve it.