How To Fix KN221 - Characteristic combination impossible

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: KN - Reporting for Costing

• Message number: 221

• Message text: Characteristic combination impossible

Self-Explanatory Message

Since SAP believes that this specific error message is 'self-explanatory,' no more information has been given.The majority of messages in the SAP system have a message text, however this is frequently insufficient to comprehend or resolve the problem.

To make things easier, more detailed information is frequently added to describe the issue, how to fix it, and the necessary steps or configuration modifications.

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message KN221 - Characteristic combination impossible ?

  The SAP error message KN221 ("Characteristic combination impossible") typically occurs in the context of variant configuration or when dealing with configurable materials in SAP. This error indicates that the combination of characteristics selected for a configurable material is not valid according to the configuration settings defined in the system.
  Causes:
  
  Invalid Characteristic Combinations: The selected characteristics do not match the allowed combinations defined in the configuration profile.
  Missing Dependencies: There may be dependencies (e.g., constraints) that restrict certain characteristics from being selected together.
  Incorrect Configuration Profile: The configuration profile for the material may not be set up correctly, leading to invalid combinations.
  Data Inconsistencies: There may be inconsistencies in the master data related to the characteristics or the material itself.
  
  Solutions:
  
  Review Characteristic Combinations: Check the characteristics selected for the material and ensure they are valid. Refer to the configuration profile to see which combinations are allowed.
  Check Dependencies: Review the dependencies defined for the characteristics in the configuration profile. Ensure that the dependencies are correctly set up and that they allow the desired combinations.
  Update Configuration Profile: If necessary, update the configuration profile to include the required combinations or to correct any errors in the existing setup.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for guidance on setting up variant configuration and understanding characteristic dependencies.
  Test with Different Combinations: Try selecting different combinations of characteristics to identify which specific combination is causing the error.
  Data Consistency Check: Perform a consistency check on the master data related to the material and its characteristics to ensure there are no discrepancies.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: You may use transaction codes like CU50 (Configuration Profile) or CU01 (Create Characteristics) to manage characteristics and dependencies.
  SAP Notes: Check for relevant SAP Notes that may address specific issues related to this error message.
  User Exits and BAdIs: If custom logic is involved, review any user exits or BAdIs that may affect the configuration process.
  Training and Documentation: Consider training sessions or documentation on variant configuration to better understand how to manage characteristics and dependencies effectively.
  
  If the issue persists after trying the above solutions, it may be beneficial to consult with an SAP expert or your organization's SAP support team for further assistance.