How To Fix CRM_EXT_REF404 - Additional external reference type cannot be blank

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: CRM_EXT_REF - Messages for Add. External References Set

• Message number: 404

• Message text: Additional external reference type cannot be blank

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.

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message CRM_EXT_REF404 - Additional external reference type cannot be blank ?

  The SAP error message "CRM_EXT_REF404: Additional external reference type cannot be blank" typically occurs in the context of SAP Customer Relationship Management (CRM) when there is an attempt to create or update a business object (like a lead, opportunity, or activity) that requires an external reference type, but this reference type is not provided.
  Cause:
  
  Missing External Reference Type: The error indicates that the system expects an external reference type to be specified, but it is either missing or not properly set in the relevant fields.
  Configuration Issues: There may be configuration settings in the CRM system that require certain fields to be filled out, and if these are not configured correctly, it can lead to this error.
  Data Entry Errors: Users may inadvertently leave the external reference type field blank when entering data.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Input Fields: Ensure that the external reference type field is filled out correctly when creating or updating the business object. This field should not be left blank.
  Review Configuration: If you have access to the configuration settings, check the settings related to external references in the CRM system. Ensure that the required fields are properly configured and that the external reference types are defined.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for guidance on the specific business object you are working with to understand the requirements for external references.
  User Training: If this error is common among users, consider providing training or guidelines on how to properly fill out the necessary fields when entering data into the CRM system.
  Debugging: If the issue persists, you may need to debug the process to identify where the external reference type is being set or not set. This may require technical assistance from an SAP developer or consultant.
  
  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.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes in SAP CRM that may help in troubleshooting or configuring external references (e.g., CRMD_ORDER for managing business transactions).
  Community Forums: Engage with SAP community forums or user groups where similar issues may have been discussed, and solutions shared.
  
  By addressing the missing external reference type and ensuring proper configuration, you should be able to resolve the CRM_EXT_REF404 error.