How To Fix DA111 - Error defining separators: &

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: DA - Dictionary: Compare, distribution, timer, instantiation

• Message number: 111

• Message text: Error defining separators: &

What causes this issue?

The syntax of the separator entry in the schema program is incorrect.

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?

Use the following syntax when entering the separators in the first line
of the schema program:
:SEP /> </ & /$ $/ $ \
The default separators were used here. These are used if nothing has
been specified in the schema program.
You must enter exactly 7 separators separated by space:
start of schema name (2 places)
end of schema name (2 places)
variables name brackets (1 place)
start of subschema (2 places)
end of subschema (2 places)
parts of subschemas (1 place)
line feed escape (1 place)

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message DA111 - Error defining separators: & ?

  The SAP error message DA111, which states "Error defining separators: &", typically occurs when there is an issue with the configuration of separators in the SAP system. This error can arise in various contexts, such as during data import/export processes, file handling, or when defining formats for data processing.
  Cause:
  
  Invalid Separator Character: The character used as a separator may not be valid or recognized by the system. In this case, the ampersand (&) is likely being used incorrectly.
  Configuration Issues: There may be a misconfiguration in the settings where separators are defined, leading to the system not being able to process the input correctly.
  Data Format Issues: The data being processed may contain unexpected characters or formats that conflict with the defined separators.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Separator Configuration:
  
  Go to the relevant configuration settings in SAP where separators are defined (e.g., in file formats, data import/export settings).
  Ensure that the separator character is valid and appropriate for the context. If & is being used, consider replacing it with a more standard separator like a comma (,), semicolon (;), or tab.
  
  
  
  Review Data Input:
  
  If the error occurs during data import, check the source data for any unexpected characters or formatting issues.
  Clean the data to ensure it adheres to the expected format.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for guidance on valid separator characters and their usage in the specific context you are working with.
  
  
  
  Test Changes:
  
  After making changes to the separator configuration or the data, test the process again to see if the error persists.
  
  
  
  Seek Support:
  
  If the issue continues, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting SAP community forums for additional assistance.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that might address this specific error or provide updates/patches that could resolve the issue.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with transaction codes related to data import/export and configuration settings (e.g., SE38, SE11, SE80).
  Error Logs: Review system logs for additional error messages or context that could help diagnose the issue further.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the DA111 error in your SAP system.