How To Fix KB505 - Enter either a name, a blank, or an asterisk (*)

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: KB - Controlling: Reporting

• Message number: 505

• Message text: Enter either a name, a blank, or an asterisk (*)

What causes this issue?

In selection of report data, the selection results can be saved under a
particular name (with twelve blank spaces also possible. The name must
beentered for report output.

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?

Enter the name entered during the selection.
Do no enter a name if you did not use a name during selection (which is
equivalent to entering a string of blank spaces).
Enter * if you do not know the name. When executing <ZH>Output</>, the
names of the different selection results will be offered. After
choosinga name, the report output is executed immediately. If there is
only a stored selection result available, report output is executed
without a selection screen.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message KB505 - Enter either a name, a blank, or an asterisk (*) ?

  The SAP error message KB505 ("Enter either a name, a blank, or an asterisk (*)") typically occurs when you are trying to execute a transaction or report that requires you to input a specific field, but the input provided does not meet the expected criteria. This error is often seen in contexts where a selection field is expecting a valid entry, such as a name or identifier, but receives an invalid input instead.
  Cause:
  
  Invalid Input: The field may require a specific format or type of input, and entering an invalid value (like a special character or an incorrect string) can trigger this error.
  Empty Field: If the field is mandatory and left blank, it can also lead to this error.
  Incorrect Use of Wildcards: If you are using wildcards (like an asterisk) incorrectly, it may not be accepted in the context you are trying to use it.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Input: Ensure that you are entering a valid name or identifier in the required field. If you are unsure of the valid entries, you can often use the search help (F4) to find valid options.
  Use Wildcards Correctly: If you intend to use an asterisk (*) as a wildcard, ensure that it is used in the correct context. For example, if the field allows for partial matches, an asterisk can be used at the beginning or end of a string.
  Leave Blank if Optional: If the field is optional, you can leave it blank if you do not want to filter by that criterion.
  Consult Documentation: If you are unsure about the expected input, refer to the SAP documentation or help resources related to the specific transaction or report you are using.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: This error can occur in various transaction codes, especially those related to master data or reporting.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or updates related to the specific transaction or module you are working with.
  User Authorization: Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to access the data you are trying to retrieve or manipulate.
  
  If the problem persists after trying the above solutions, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting with a colleague who has experience with the specific transaction or module.