How To Fix EL473 - Device &1, Reg. &2: You cannot change the sequence of meter readings

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: EL - IS-U meter reading data processing

• Message number: 473

• Message text: Device &1, Reg. &2: You cannot change the sequence of meter readings

What causes this issue?

Several meter reading results exist for the meter reading date. For
billing reasons you cannot enter the meter reading time in a way that
changes the order of the meter reading results.

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?

Enter a meter reading time that does not change the order of the results
Cancel the meter reading results that you want to change and enter them
again in the desired order.

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 EL473 - Device &1, Reg. &2: You cannot change the sequence of meter readings ?

  The SAP error message EL473 indicates that there is an issue with the sequence of meter readings for a specific device and register. This error typically arises in the context of utilities management, particularly when dealing with meter data management in SAP IS-U (Industry Solution for Utilities).
  Cause:
  The error message EL473 occurs when there is an attempt to change the sequence of meter readings that have already been recorded. This can happen due to several reasons:
  
  Incorrect Data Entry: A user may have tried to enter a new meter reading that is out of sequence compared to the existing readings.
  Data Integrity Rules: SAP enforces data integrity rules to ensure that meter readings are recorded in a chronological order. If a new reading is dated earlier than a previously recorded reading, this error will be triggered.
  System Configuration: The system may be configured to prevent changes to the sequence of readings to maintain data integrity.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the EL473 error, consider the following steps:
  
  
  Check Meter Reading Sequence: Review the existing meter readings for the device and register in question. Ensure that the new reading you are trying to enter is in the correct chronological order.
  
  
  Correct the Reading Date: If the new reading has an incorrect date, update it to a date that is later than the last recorded reading.
  
  
  Delete or Adjust Previous Readings: If necessary, you may need to delete or adjust previous readings to allow for the new reading to be entered. However, be cautious with this approach as it may affect historical data.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: Review SAP documentation or consult with your SAP support team for specific guidelines on handling meter readings and the implications of changing them.
  
  
  User Authorization: Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to make changes to meter readings. Sometimes, restrictions may be in place that prevent certain users from making changes.
  
  
  System Configuration Review: If the issue persists, it may be necessary to review the system configuration settings related to meter reading processing to ensure they align with your business requirements.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error or provide additional guidance.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as EL31 (Display Meter Reading) or EL30 (Create Meter Reading) to manage meter readings effectively.
  Training and Documentation: Ensure that users involved in meter reading entry are adequately trained on the processes and understand the importance of maintaining the correct sequence of readings.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the EL473 error and ensure that meter readings are recorded correctly in SAP.