How To Fix GU109 - Syntax error in segment definition (pos. & -> &)

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: GU - FI-SL utilities

• Message number: 109

• Message text: Syntax error in segment definition (pos. & -> &)

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.

Unfortunately, there isn't any extra information in this error notice.

What else can you do?

First, use our AnswerBot below to get a possible cause and solution (requires a premium subscription).

Also, review the in-depth Common Questions & Answers listed below; you could discover a solution there or be able to connect with others who have faced similar challenges.

You can also try searching the SAP support portal (support.sap.com) but you need a special user ID to access it. It is possible that an SAP support note exists that provides additional details about the mistake or even steps for fixing it.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message GU109 - Syntax error in segment definition (pos. & -> &) ?

  The SAP error message GU109, which indicates a "Syntax error in segment definition (pos. & -> &)", typically occurs in the context of Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) or Intermediate Document (IDoc) processing. This error suggests that there is a problem with the structure or syntax of a segment in the IDoc or EDI message.
  Cause:
  
  Incorrect Segment Definition: The segment definition in the IDoc or EDI message may not conform to the expected format. This could be due to missing mandatory fields, incorrect data types, or invalid values.
  Mapping Issues: If you are using a mapping tool (like SAP PI/PO), there may be issues in the mapping configuration that lead to incorrect segment generation.
  Version Mismatch: The version of the IDoc or EDI standard being used may not match the expected version in the SAP system.
  Custom Enhancements: If there are custom enhancements or modifications in the IDoc processing logic, they may introduce syntax errors.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Segment Definition: Review the segment definition in the IDoc or EDI message. Ensure that all mandatory fields are present and that the data types and lengths are correct.
  Validate Mapping: If using a mapping tool, validate the mapping configuration to ensure that it correctly translates the source data into the expected IDoc format.
  Review IDoc Structure: Use transaction WE30 (IDoc Types) or WE31 (IDoc Segments) to check the structure of the IDoc and ensure that it matches the expected format.
  Test with Sample Data: Create a test IDoc or EDI message with sample data that adheres to the expected structure to see if the error persists.
  Check for Updates: Ensure that your SAP system is up to date with the latest support packages and notes, as there may be fixes related to IDoc processing.
  Debugging: If the issue is not resolved, consider debugging the IDoc processing to identify where the syntax error is occurring.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes:
  
  WE02: Display IDocs
  WE19: Test tool for IDocs
  WE30: IDoc Types
  WE31: IDoc Segments
  
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to the specific IDoc type or EDI message you are working with.
  Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation for the specific IDoc type or EDI standard you are using to ensure compliance with the expected structure.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the syntax error indicated by the GU109 message.