How To Fix MC124 - Start of background job is in the past

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: MC - Aggregate: views, matchcodes, lock objects

• Message number: 124

• Message text: Start of background job is in the past

What causes this issue?

The start date you specified for a background job is in the past.
Remember that the computer clocks might not be synchronized in a
computer network.

System Response

The system does not execute the background job, i.e. the maintenance of
the matchcode object.

How to fix this error?

Repeat the maintenance after changing the start time.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message MC124 - Start of background job is in the past ?

  The SAP error message MC124, which states "Start of background job is in the past," typically occurs when you attempt to schedule a background job with a start time that is earlier than the current system time. This can happen for various reasons, such as incorrect time settings, user error in specifying the job start time, or issues with the job scheduling configuration.
  Cause:
  
  Incorrect Time Specification: The start time for the background job is set to a time that has already passed.
  System Time Issues: The system clock may be incorrectly set, leading to discrepancies in time.
  Time Zone Differences: If the job is scheduled in a different time zone than the server, it may lead to confusion about the actual start time.
  Job Scheduling Errors: Errors in the job scheduling process or configuration can lead to this message.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check the Scheduled Time: Review the start time you have set for the background job. Ensure that it is set to a future time relative to the current system time.
  Adjust System Time: If the system time is incorrect, coordinate with your system administrator to correct the time settings on the server.
  Use Current Time: When scheduling a job, consider using the current time plus a few minutes to ensure that the job does not start immediately or in the past.
  Review Time Zones: If applicable, ensure that the time zone settings for the job and the server are aligned.
  Re-schedule the Job: If the job was scheduled incorrectly, delete it and create a new job with the correct future start time.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: You can use transaction codes like SM37 to monitor background jobs and SM36 to schedule new jobs.
  Job Scheduling Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation for guidelines on scheduling background jobs, including best practices for setting start times.
  System Administration: If you suspect system time issues, consult with your SAP Basis team to ensure that the server's time settings are synchronized with a reliable time source.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the MC124 error and successfully schedule your background job.