How To Fix EDATEX042 - Start of reference period must be before end of reference period

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: EDATEX - Messages for Data Exchange Processes

• Message number: 042

• Message text: Start of reference period must be before end of reference period

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 EDATEX042 - Start of reference period must be before end of reference period ?

  The SAP error message EDATEX042 indicates that there is an issue with the reference period dates in a data extraction or reporting process. Specifically, the error states that the "start of reference period must be before end of reference period." This typically occurs when the start date is set to a date that is later than or equal to the end date.
  Cause:
  
  Incorrect Date Input: The most common cause is that the user has entered the start date and end date incorrectly, with the start date being after the end date.
  Data Entry Errors: Mistakes during data entry, such as typographical errors or misinterpretation of date formats.
  System Configuration: In some cases, the system configuration or settings may not allow for the specified date range.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Date Inputs: Review the dates entered for the reference period. Ensure that the start date is earlier than the end date.
  Correct Format: Make sure that the dates are in the correct format as expected by the SAP system (e.g., DD/MM/YYYY or MM/DD/YYYY).
  Validation: Implement validation checks in the input screen to prevent users from entering an invalid date range.
  Re-enter Dates: If the dates were entered incorrectly, re-enter them with the correct values.
  Consult Documentation: If you are unsure about the expected date formats or the context in which you are entering these dates, refer to the relevant SAP documentation or user guides.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that might address this specific error or provide additional context.
  User Training: Ensure that users are trained on how to correctly enter date ranges in the system to avoid this error in the future.
  System Logs: If the error persists after correcting the dates, check system logs for any additional error messages or warnings that might provide further insight into the issue.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the EDATEX042 error and successfully complete your data extraction or reporting task in SAP.