How To Fix FB098 - PAMA_COMPILE_EXPRESSION: Invalid character '&' in print '&'

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: FB - Batch Programs

• Message number: 098

• Message text: PAMA_COMPILE_EXPRESSION: Invalid character '&' in print '&'

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 FB098 - PAMA_COMPILE_EXPRESSION: Invalid character '&' in print '&' ?

  The SAP error message FB098 with the description PAMA_COMPILE_EXPRESSION: Invalid character '&' in print '&' typically occurs in the context of financial document processing, particularly when dealing with print layouts or forms in SAP.
  Cause:
  The error is caused by the presence of an invalid character (&) in a print layout or form. This can happen if:
  
  The print layout or form contains an incorrect syntax or formatting.
  There is an attempt to use a special character that is not allowed in the context of the print layout.
  The expression or formula used in the print layout is incorrectly defined, leading to the inclusion of invalid characters.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you can follow these steps:
  
  
  Check the Print Layout/Form:
  
  Open the print layout or form that is causing the error.
  Look for any instances of the & character and verify if it is being used correctly.
  Ensure that any expressions or formulas do not contain invalid characters.
  
  
  
  Correct the Syntax:
  
  If you find the & character being used incorrectly, either remove it or replace it with the correct syntax.
  If the & is intended to concatenate strings or variables, ensure that it is used in the correct context.
  
  
  
  Test the Changes:
  
  After making the necessary corrections, save the print layout/form.
  Test the output to ensure that the error no longer occurs.
  
  
  
  Review Documentation:
  
  Consult SAP documentation or help resources for guidelines on valid characters and syntax in print layouts.
  
  
  
  Consult with SAP Support:
  
  If the issue persists after making corrections, consider reaching out to SAP support for further assistance. They may provide insights specific to your SAP version or configuration.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Script and Smart Forms: If you are using SAPscript or Smart Forms for printing, ensure that you are familiar with the syntax and rules governing these tools.
  Debugging: If you have access to debugging tools, you can trace the execution to identify where the invalid character is being introduced.
  User Exits and Enhancements: If there are any user exits or enhancements that modify the print layout, review them to ensure they are not introducing invalid characters.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the cause of the FB098 error in your SAP environment.