How To Fix MN538 - Time of update (event) & not defined

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: MN - Message class for subsequent settlement (Purchasing)

• Message number: 538

• Message text: Time of update (event) & not defined

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message MN538 - Time of update (event) & not defined ?

  The SAP error message MN538 ("Time of update (event) & not defined") typically occurs in the context of the Material Management (MM) module, particularly when dealing with inventory management or goods movements. This error indicates that the system is unable to find a defined update time for a specific event related to material movements.
  Cause:
  
  Missing Configuration: The most common cause of this error is that the update time for a specific event (like goods receipt, goods issue, etc.) has not been defined in the system configuration.
  Custom Development: If there are custom developments or enhancements in the system, they might not have been properly configured to handle the update times.
  Transport Issues: If the configuration was recently transported from another system, it might not have been fully set up in the target system.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Configuration:
  
  Go to the configuration settings in the SAP system (Transaction SPRO).
  Navigate to Logistics Execution > Shipping > Basic Shipping Functions > Update Control.
  Ensure that the update times for the relevant events are defined correctly.
  
  
  
  Define Update Times:
  
  If the update time is missing, you will need to define it. This typically involves specifying the timing for when the system should process updates for various events.
  Make sure to save your changes and transport them if necessary.
  
  
  
  Review Custom Code:
  
  If there are any custom programs or enhancements, review the code to ensure that it correctly references the update times and handles events appropriately.
  
  
  
  Check for Transport Issues:
  
  If the configuration was recently transported, verify that all necessary objects and settings were included in the transport request.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for specific guidance on the configuration of update times for your version of SAP.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: You may need to use transaction codes like SPRO (for configuration), SE80 (for development), or SE37 (for function modules) to investigate further.
  SAP Notes: Check the SAP Support Portal for any relevant SAP Notes that might address this specific error or provide additional troubleshooting steps.
  Community Forums: Consider searching or posting in SAP community forums for insights from other users who may have encountered the same issue.
  
  If the problem persists after following these steps, it may be beneficial to engage with your SAP Basis or functional team for further investigation.