How To Fix IM303 - Invalid key while processing print protocol

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: IM - Maintenance notifications

• Message number: 303

• Message text: Invalid key while processing print protocol

What causes this issue?

The system issues an error message and will not allow you to continue with this transaction until the error is resolved.

System Response

How to fix this error?

Inform your system administrator.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message IM303 - Invalid key while processing print protocol ?

  The SAP error message IM303 "Invalid key while processing print protocol" typically occurs when there is an issue with the print protocol configuration or the data being sent to the print system. This error can arise in various scenarios, such as when trying to print documents or reports from SAP.
  Causes:
  
  Invalid Print Protocol Configuration: The print protocol settings in the SAP system may not be correctly configured or may be missing.
  Incorrect Printer Settings: The printer settings in SAP may not match the actual printer configuration, leading to communication issues.
  Missing or Incorrect Data: The data being sent to the printer may be incomplete or formatted incorrectly, causing the print job to fail.
  Authorization Issues: The user may not have the necessary authorizations to access the print protocol or the printer.
  Network Issues: There may be network connectivity problems between the SAP system and the printer.
  
  Solutions:
  
  
  Check Print Protocol Configuration:
  
  Go to transaction SPAD (Spool Administration) and verify the print protocol settings.
  Ensure that the correct print device is assigned and that the configuration is complete.
  
  
  
  Verify Printer Settings:
  
  In SPAD, check the settings for the printer being used. Ensure that the device type and output format are correctly configured.
  Test the printer configuration by printing a test page.
  
  
  
  Review Data Being Printed:
  
  Check the data being sent to the printer for completeness and correctness. Ensure that all required fields are populated.
  If applicable, review the output format settings to ensure they match the printer's capabilities.
  
  
  
  Check User Authorizations:
  
  Ensure that the user has the necessary authorizations to access the print protocol and the printer. This can be checked in transaction SU01 (User Maintenance).
  
  
  
  Network Connectivity:
  
  Verify that there are no network issues preventing communication between the SAP system and the printer. Check for any firewall settings or network configurations that may be blocking the connection.
  
  
  
  Review SAP Notes:
  
  Check the SAP Support Portal for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error message. There may be patches or updates available that resolve known issues.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  Transaction Codes:
  
  SPAD: Spool Administration
  SU01: User Maintenance
  SP01: Spool Request Overview
  
  
  
  Documentation: Refer to SAP Help documentation for detailed information on print protocols and spool administration.
  
  
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums to see if other users have encountered similar issues and what solutions they have found.
  
  
  If the problem persists after trying the above solutions, it may be necessary to involve your SAP Basis team or SAP support for further investigation.