How To Fix NR131 - The "External" field must be initial since its flag is set to "off"

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: NR - Number ranges

• Message number: 131

• Message text: The "External" field must be initial since its flag is set to "off"

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message NR131 - The "External" field must be initial since its flag is set to "off" ?

  The SAP error message NR131 indicates that there is an issue with the "External" field in a particular context, typically related to number range objects. This error occurs when the system expects the "External" field to be empty (initial) because the corresponding flag is set to "off." 
  Cause:
  
  Configuration Issue: The number range object has been configured to not allow external number assignment, but an attempt is being made to assign a value to the "External" field.
  Data Entry Error: A user may have inadvertently entered a value in the "External" field when it should not have been populated.
  Custom Development: If there are custom programs or enhancements that manipulate number ranges, they may not be adhering to the configuration settings.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Number Range Configuration:
  
  Go to transaction code SNRO (Number Range Objects).
  Find the relevant number range object and check its configuration.
  Ensure that the "External" flag is set correctly based on your business requirements. If it is set to "off," then the "External" field should remain empty.
  
  
  
  Clear the External Field:
  
  If you are entering data manually, ensure that the "External" field is left blank when the flag is set to "off."
  If this is happening in a program or transaction, check the logic to ensure it does not attempt to populate the "External" field when it should not.
  
  
  
  Review Custom Code:
  
  If there are custom developments involved, review the code to ensure it respects the number range configuration.
  Make necessary adjustments to prevent the "External" field from being populated when it should be empty.
  
  
  
  Testing:
  
  After making changes, test the relevant transactions or programs to ensure that the error no longer occurs.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Number Range Objects: These are used in SAP to manage the assignment of unique numbers to various objects (like documents, invoices, etc.). Each number range object can be configured to allow either internal or external number assignment.
  Transaction Codes:
  
  SNRO: To manage number range objects.
  SNUM: To display number ranges.
  
  
  Documentation: Refer to SAP Help documentation for detailed information on number range management and configuration.
  
  If the issue persists after following these steps, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP Basis or ABAP team for further investigation.