How To Fix EM091 - Could not read file header (file &1)

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: EM - IS-U Migration

• Message number: 091

• Message text: Could not read file header (file &1)

What causes this issue?

The file header identifies the file contents and could not be read.
Therefore, migration cannot be carried out.

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?

Check the file contents and the file header.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message EM091 - Could not read file header (file &1) ?

  The SAP error message EM091, which states "Could not read file header (file &1)," typically indicates that there is an issue with reading the header of a file that is being processed by the SAP system. This error can occur in various contexts, such as during file uploads, data imports, or when processing external files.
  Causes:
  
  File Format Issues: The file may not be in the expected format or may be corrupted. This can happen if the file was not created correctly or if it was modified improperly.
  File Path Issues: The specified file path may be incorrect, or the file may not exist at the specified location.
  Permissions Issues: The user or the SAP system may not have the necessary permissions to access the file.
  File Encoding Issues: The file may be encoded in a format that is not supported by SAP, leading to difficulties in reading the header.
  Network Issues: If the file is being accessed over a network, there may be connectivity issues that prevent the file from being read.
  
  Solutions:
  
  Check File Format: Ensure that the file is in the correct format expected by the SAP system. If necessary, recreate the file using the appropriate tools or software.
  Verify File Path: Double-check the file path specified in the transaction or program to ensure it is correct and that the file exists at that location.
  Check Permissions: Ensure that the user or the SAP system has the necessary permissions to read the file. This may involve checking file system permissions or SAP authorization settings.
  Review File Encoding: If the file is a text file, check its encoding. It may need to be saved in a different encoding (e.g., UTF-8) that is compatible with SAP.
  Test Network Connectivity: If the file is located on a network drive, ensure that there are no network issues preventing access to the file.
  Use Transaction Codes: If applicable, use transaction codes like AL11 to check the file directory and ensure the file is present and accessible.
  
  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 for common problems.
  Logs and Traces: Review system logs and traces for additional error messages or warnings that may provide more context about the issue.
  Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation for the specific module or transaction you are working with to understand the expected file formats and requirements.
  
  If the issue persists after trying the above solutions, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting with SAP experts for further assistance.