How To Fix EA246 - Segment definition & unknown

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: EA - IDoc Basis Messages

• Message number: 246

• Message text: Segment definition & unknown

What causes this issue?

The segment definition ( = segment version, version number &v1& ) is
not recognized.

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?

Procedure for System Administrators

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message EA246 - Segment definition & unknown ?

  The SAP error message EA246, which states "Segment definition & unknown," typically occurs in the context of Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) or when working with IDocs (Intermediate Documents) in SAP. This error indicates that the system has encountered a segment definition that it does not recognize or that is not properly defined in the system.
  Causes:
  
  Missing Segment Definition: The segment that is being referenced in the IDoc or EDI message is not defined in the system.
  Incorrect Configuration: The configuration for the IDoc or EDI interface may be incorrect, leading to the system not recognizing the segment.
  Version Mismatch: There may be a mismatch between the version of the IDoc or EDI standard being used and what is defined in the SAP system.
  Custom Segments: If custom segments are being used, they may not be properly defined or activated in the system.
  
  Solutions:
  
  Check Segment Definitions: Verify that the segment in question is defined in the relevant IDoc type or EDI message type. You can do this by using transaction codes like WE30 (IDoc Types) or WE31 (Segment Types).
  Review Configuration: Ensure that the configuration for the IDoc or EDI interface is correct. This includes checking the partner profiles (transaction WE20) and the message types.
  Update or Correct Mappings: If you are using a middleware (like SAP PI/PO), check the mappings to ensure that they are correctly set up to handle the segments being sent or received.
  Check for Custom Segments: If you are using custom segments, ensure that they are properly defined and activated in the system. You may need to use transaction WE30 to create or modify segment definitions.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to the relevant SAP documentation or EDI standards documentation to ensure that you are using the correct segment definitions and structures.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes:
  
  WE30: To view and manage IDoc types and segment definitions.
  WE31: To view and manage segment types.
  WE20: To manage partner profiles.
  
  
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error or provide updates related to EDI/IDoc processing.
  Debugging: If the issue persists, consider debugging the IDoc processing to identify where the error is occurring in the code.
  
  If you continue to experience issues after following these steps, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP Basis or technical team for further assistance.