How To Fix IM017 - An equipment must be entered before making an assembly selection

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: IM - Maintenance notifications

• Message number: 017

• Message text: An equipment must be entered before making an assembly selection

What causes this issue?

You requested the structure explosion function, but no reference object
has been entered.

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 the reference object, so that the system can explode the
structure of this object.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message IM017 - An equipment must be entered before making an assembly selection ?

  The SAP error message IM017 ("An equipment must be entered before making an assembly selection") typically occurs in the context of maintenance or production processes where equipment is involved. This error indicates that the system requires an equipment number to be specified before you can proceed with selecting an assembly or component.
  Cause:
  
  Missing Equipment Number: The most common cause of this error is that the user has not entered an equipment number in the relevant field before attempting to select an assembly.
  Incorrect Transaction: The transaction being used may require an equipment number, but the user is either in the wrong transaction or has not navigated to the correct screen where the equipment number is needed.
  Configuration Issues: There may be configuration settings in the system that require an equipment number for certain operations, and these settings may not be properly aligned with the user's actions.
  
  Solution:
  
  Enter Equipment Number: Ensure that you have entered a valid equipment number in the appropriate field before attempting to make an assembly selection. This is usually done in the initial screen of the transaction or in a specific section where equipment details are required.
  Check Transaction Steps: Review the steps you are following in the transaction. Make sure you are in the correct part of the process that requires the equipment number.
  Consult Documentation: If you are unsure about the process, refer to the SAP documentation or user manuals related to the specific transaction you are using.
  User Authorization: Ensure that you have the necessary permissions to access and enter equipment information. If you suspect authorization issues, contact your SAP administrator.
  System Configuration: If the problem persists, it may be necessary to consult with your SAP support team or system administrator to check if there are any configuration issues that need to be addressed.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with the specific transaction codes related to equipment management, such as IW31 (Create Order), IW32 (Change Order), or others that may involve assembly selection.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message. SAP frequently updates its system, and there may be specific notes addressing this error.
  Training and Support: If you are new to SAP or the specific module you are working with, consider seeking additional training or support from experienced colleagues or SAP training resources.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the IM017 error and proceed with your assembly selection in SAP.