How To Fix COM_PME_PARSER038 - Numeric expression required

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: COM_PME_PARSER - Configuration

• Message number: 038

• Message text: Numeric expression required

What causes this issue?

The system check found a syntax error. At the cursor, the system
expects a numeric expression, such as a figure, a numeric
characteristic, a formula, or a master data access for a reference
characteristic.

System Response

The system issues an error message and will not allow you to continue with this transaction until the error is resolved.

How to fix this error?

Check your entries and correct the expression as appropriate. Please
note also the other possible causes of error.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message COM_PME_PARSER038 - Numeric expression required ?

  The SAP error message COM_PME_PARSER038 with the description "Numeric expression required" typically occurs in the context of SAP's Profitability Analysis (CO-PA) or other modules where numeric calculations are expected. This error indicates that the system encountered a situation where it expected a numeric value but found something else, such as a string or a null value.
  Causes:
  
  Data Type Mismatch: The most common cause is that a field or variable that is expected to contain a numeric value is either empty or contains non-numeric characters.
  Incorrect Formula: If you are using a formula or calculation that references fields, one of those fields may not be defined as numeric.
  Configuration Issues: There may be issues in the configuration of the data model or the way the data is being processed.
  Data Entry Errors: Manual data entry errors can lead to non-numeric values being entered in fields that should only contain numbers.
  
  Solutions:
  
  Check Data Types: Review the fields involved in the calculation or formula to ensure they are defined as numeric in the data model.
  Validate Input Data: Ensure that all input data is correctly formatted and does not contain any non-numeric characters. This may involve checking the source data or the data entry process.
  Review Formulas: If you are using custom calculations or formulas, double-check them for any references to non-numeric fields.
  Debugging: If you have access to debugging tools, you can trace the execution of the program to identify where the error is occurring and what values are being processed.
  Consult Documentation: Review SAP documentation or help resources for specific guidance related to the module you are working with.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message. SAP frequently updates its knowledge base with solutions to common problems.
  Community Forums: SAP Community and other forums can be valuable resources for finding similar issues faced by other users and the solutions they found.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes (like KE30 for CO-PA reports) to help you navigate and troubleshoot within the SAP system.
  
  If the issue persists after trying the above solutions, it may be beneficial to reach out to your SAP support team or a consultant with expertise in the specific module you are working with.