How To Fix ICC_NF_WRITER038 - Combination of 'Usage' and 'Field Identification' already in use

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: ICC_NF_WRITER - Messages for Nota Fiscal Writer, Numbering and Printing

• Message number: 038

• Message text: Combination of 'Usage' and 'Field Identification' already in use

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message ICC_NF_WRITER038 - Combination of 'Usage' and 'Field Identification' already in use ?

  The SAP error message ICC_NF_WRITER038 indicates that there is a conflict in the configuration of the system, specifically related to the combination of 'Usage' and 'Field Identification' in the context of the SAP Information Lifecycle Management (ILM) or Data Archiving processes. This error typically arises when there is an attempt to create or modify a configuration that already exists in the system.
  Cause:
  The error is caused by the following scenarios:
  
  Duplicate Configuration: You are trying to create a new entry in the system that has the same 'Usage' and 'Field Identification' as an existing entry. This can happen if you are trying to define a new data retention policy or archiving object that conflicts with an existing one.
  Incorrect Data Entry: There may be a mistake in the data entry where the same combination has been inadvertently entered multiple times.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Check Existing Configurations:
  
  Navigate to the relevant configuration area in SAP where the 'Usage' and 'Field Identification' settings are defined.
  Look for existing entries that match the combination you are trying to create. You can use transaction codes like SARA (for archiving) or ILM (for Information Lifecycle Management) to check the configurations.
  
  
  
  Modify or Delete Existing Entries:
  
  If you find a duplicate entry, you can either modify it if it needs to be updated or delete it if it is no longer required.
  Ensure that any changes made do not affect other processes or configurations that rely on the existing settings.
  
  
  
  Create Unique Combinations:
  
  If you need to create a new entry, ensure that the combination of 'Usage' and 'Field Identification' is unique. You may need to adjust the parameters to avoid conflicts.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Review SAP documentation or notes related to the specific module you are working with. There may be additional guidelines or best practices for configuring 'Usage' and 'Field Identification'.
  
  
  
  Seek Help from SAP Support:
  
  If you are unable to resolve the issue, consider reaching out to SAP support for assistance. They can provide insights based on the specific version of SAP you are using and any known issues.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as SARA for archiving and ILM for Information Lifecycle Management.
  SAP Notes: Check for any SAP Notes that might address this specific error or provide additional troubleshooting steps.
  Documentation: Review the SAP Help Portal for detailed documentation on configuring archiving and ILM settings.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the error and implement a solution to resolve it.