How To Fix BT121 - Previous job & is locked; try again later

BT121 - Overview

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: BT - Background processing messages

• Message number: 121

• Message text: Previous job & is locked; try again later

What causes this issue?

The background processing system was unable to access the predecessor
job of this job. The required entry in table TBTCO is currently in use
by another user. The entry is therefore locked.

System Response

Action not completed.

How to fix this error?

Try to save your job specifications again. The problem should resolve
itself without any action from you within a brief period of time.
If the problem does not go away, you can check on the user who holds
the lock using the <DS:TRAN.SM12>lock management facility</>.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message BT121 - Previous job & is locked; try again later ?

  The SAP error message BT121, which states "Previous job & is locked; try again later," typically occurs when a background job in SAP is trying to execute but is unable to do so because another job is currently using the same resources or is in a locked state. This can happen for various reasons, such as:
  Causes:
  
  Job Overlap: Two or more background jobs are scheduled to run at the same time, and one job is locking the resources needed by the other.
  Job Status: The previous job may be in a status that prevents new jobs from starting, such as "active" or "cancelled."
  Database Locks: There may be database locks that are preventing the job from executing.
  System Performance Issues: High system load or performance issues can lead to jobs being delayed or locked.
  
  Solutions:
  
  Check Job Status: Use transaction code SM37 to check the status of the jobs. Look for any jobs that are currently