How To Fix J3600 - MODE field does not contain an entry. Enter either 'I' or 'U'

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: J3 - Dialog Messages for Data Pool Entry Transactions

• Message number: 600

• Message text: MODE field does not contain an entry. Enter either 'I' or 'U'

What causes this issue?

The MODE field for the transferred record has been incorrectly
maintained, or has not been maintained at all.
Permitted values are:
'I' for inserting a new record
'U' for changing an existing record
&SYSTEM_RESPONSE& (EDT only)
The relevant record has been placed in the batch input session for
correction and subsequent reimportation.
&WHAT_TO_DO& (EDT only)
Correct the record in the batch input session.
&HINTS&

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message J3600 - MODE field does not contain an entry. Enter either 'I' or 'U' ?

  The SAP error message J3600, which states "MODE field does not contain an entry. Enter either 'I' or 'U'," typically occurs in the context of certain transactions or processes where a mode of operation is required but not provided. This error is often encountered in the context of inventory management, material movements, or similar transactions.
  Cause:
  The error is caused by the absence of a value in the "MODE" field, which is expected to contain either:
  
  'I' for Insert
  'U' for Update
  
  This field is crucial for the system to understand what action to perform on the data being processed. If the field is left blank or contains an invalid value, the system cannot proceed, resulting in the error message.
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you should:
  
  
  Check the Input Fields: Ensure that the "MODE" field is filled correctly. If you are using a custom program or transaction, verify that the logic populating this field is functioning as intended.
  
  
  Enter the Correct Value: If you are manually entering data, make sure to input either 'I' or 'U' in the MODE field before executing the transaction.
  
  
  Review Custom Code: If this error arises from a custom development (like a Z-program), review the code to ensure that the MODE field is being set correctly based on the intended operation.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: If you are unsure about the context in which this error occurs, refer to the relevant SAP documentation or transaction guides for more information on the expected input.
  
  
  Check User Authorizations: Sometimes, the error may also be related to user permissions. Ensure that the user has the necessary authorizations to perform the action.
  
  
  Contact Support: If the issue persists after checking the above points, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting the SAP community for further assistance.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: This error can occur in various transaction codes related to inventory management, such as MB1A, MB1B, or custom transactions.
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that might address this specific error or provide additional context.
  Debugging: If you have access to debugging tools, you can trace the program execution to see where the MODE field is being set and why it might be empty.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the error and implement a solution to resolve it.