How To Fix CE478 - Only use letters, numbers or "-" in this field

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: CE - CAPP messages

• Message number: 478

• Message text: Only use letters, numbers or "-" in this field

Self-Explanatory Message

Since SAP believes that this specific error message is 'self-explanatory,' no more information has been given.The majority of messages in the SAP system have a message text, however this is frequently insufficient to comprehend or resolve the problem.

To make things easier, more detailed information is frequently added to describe the issue, how to fix it, and the necessary steps or configuration modifications.

Unfortunately, there isn't any extra information in this error notice.

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message CE478 - Only use letters, numbers or "-" in this field ?

  The SAP error message CE478 indicates that the input in a specific field contains invalid characters. The message specifies that only letters (A-Z, a-z), numbers (0-9), and the hyphen ("-") are allowed in that field. This error typically occurs when users attempt to enter data that includes special characters, spaces, or punctuation marks that are not permitted.
  Cause:
  
  Invalid Characters: The most common cause is the presence of characters that are not allowed in the specified field. This could include symbols like @, #, $, %, &, etc., or even spaces.
  Copy-Pasting Issues: Sometimes, copying and pasting text from other sources (like documents or web pages) can introduce hidden characters or formatting that SAP does not accept.
  User Input Error: Users may inadvertently type in invalid characters while entering data.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Input: Review the input in the field and ensure that it only contains letters, numbers, or hyphens. Remove any invalid characters.
  Re-enter Data: If you suspect that hidden characters are present, try typing the data manually instead of copying and pasting.
  Use Allowed Characters: Make sure to adhere strictly to the character set allowed by the field. If you need to use special characters, check if there is an alternative field or method to input the required data.
  Validation: If you are developing or customizing SAP applications, ensure that input validation is properly implemented to prevent users from entering invalid characters.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Field Specifications: Check the field specifications in the SAP documentation or the data entry guidelines for the specific module you are working with. This will provide clarity on what characters are allowed.
  SAP Notes: Sometimes, SAP releases notes or updates that may address specific issues related to data entry. Check the SAP Support Portal for any relevant notes.
  User Training: Providing training to users on the correct data entry practices can help minimize errors related to invalid characters.
  
  If the problem persists after following these steps, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP support team or refer to the SAP community forums for additional assistance.