How To Fix KM837 - Lock indicator can only be set with ' ' or 'X'

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: KM - Error messages for Profit Center Accounting

• Message number: 837

• Message text: Lock indicator can only be set with ' ' or 'X'

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message KM837 - Lock indicator can only be set with ' ' or 'X' ?

  The SAP error message KM837, which states "Lock indicator can only be set with ' ' or 'X'," typically occurs in the context of SAP Controlling (CO) when you are trying to set a lock indicator for a cost object or a controlling document. This error indicates that the value you are trying to assign to the lock indicator is invalid.
  Cause:
  The lock indicator in SAP is used to control whether a cost object (like a cost center, internal order, etc.) can be posted to or not. The valid values for the lock indicator are:
  
  A blank space (' '): This means that the object is not locked and can be posted to.
  'X': This indicates that the object is locked and cannot be posted to.
  
  If you attempt to set the lock indicator to any other value (e.g., 'Y', '1', etc.), you will encounter the KM837 error.
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you should ensure that you are only using the valid values for the lock indicator. Here are the steps you can take:
  
  
  Check the Input Value: Review the value you are trying to assign to the lock indicator. Make sure it is either a blank space (' ') or 'X'.
  
  
  Correct the Code/Configuration: If this error is occurring in a custom program or configuration, check the code to ensure that it is correctly assigning the lock indicator. Modify the code to only allow the valid values.
  
  
  Review User Input: If the value is coming from user input (e.g., a screen or a report), ensure that there are validation checks in place to restrict the input to only the allowed values.
  
  
  Test the Changes: After making the necessary corrections, test the changes to ensure that the error no longer occurs.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: This error may occur in various transaction codes related to controlling, such as KSB1 (Cost Centers: Actual Line Items), KOB1 (Orders: Actual Line Items), etc.
  Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help files for more information on the lock indicator and its usage in controlling.
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that might address this error or provide additional context.
  
  If the issue persists after following these steps, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting with an SAP expert for further assistance.