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

SAP Error Message - Details

• 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 running or have failed. If a job is stuck, you may need to cancel it.
  Job Management: If you find that jobs are overlapping, consider rescheduling them to run at different times to avoid conflicts.
  Release Locks: If you suspect that there are database locks, you can use transaction code SM12 to check for and release any locks that may be causing the issue.
  System Monitoring: Monitor system performance and resource usage to ensure that the system can handle the scheduled jobs without locking issues.
  Job Dependencies: If the job has dependencies on other jobs, ensure that those jobs have completed successfully before the current job is scheduled to run.
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  Transaction Codes:
  
  SM37: Monitor background jobs.
  SM12: Display and manage locks.
  SM21: Check system logs for errors or warnings.
  ST22: Analyze dumps that may provide insight into job failures.
  
  
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to job scheduling and locking mechanisms.
  
  
  Documentation: Review SAP documentation on background job management for best practices and troubleshooting steps.
  
  
  If the issue persists after trying the above solutions, it may be necessary to consult with your SAP Basis team or SAP support for further assistance.