How To Fix OA181 - Printer output can only be carried out from print list display

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: OA - SAP ArchiveLink: Messages for SAP ArchiveLink

• Message number: 181

• Message text: Printer output can only be carried out from print list display

What causes this issue?

An stored print list was to be printed again. This is not possible for
the print list selected.

System Response

The system issues an error message and will not allow you to continue with this transaction until the error is resolved.

How to fix this error?

Display the print list first and print it from the display.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message OA181 - Printer output can only be carried out from print list display ?

  The SAP error message OA181, which states "Printer output can only be carried out from print list display," typically occurs when you attempt to print a document or report directly from a transaction or screen that does not support direct printing. This error is common in scenarios where the system expects you to first generate a print list or output list before proceeding to print.
  Cause:
  The primary cause of this error is that the printing function is being invoked in a context where the system does not allow direct printing. This often happens in the following situations:
  
  You are trying to print a document directly from a transaction screen instead of from a print preview or print list.
  The document or report you are trying to print has not been generated or displayed in a format that allows printing.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the OA181 error, follow these steps:
  
  
  Generate the Print List: Ensure that you are in the correct transaction or report where you can generate a print list. For example, if you are working with a report, run the report first to generate the output.
  
  
  Access the Print List: After generating the report, look for an option to display the print list. This is usually found in the menu under "Print" or "Output."
  
  
  Print from the Print List: Once you have the print list displayed, you can then select the print option from there. This is typically done by choosing "Print" from the menu or using a specific function key (like F8 or Ctrl+P, depending on the context).
  
  
  Check User Authorizations: Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to print from the system. Sometimes, user roles and permissions can restrict printing capabilities.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: If you are unsure about the steps to generate a print list for a specific transaction, refer to the SAP documentation or help files related to that transaction.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with the transaction codes related to the report or document you are trying to print. For example, if you are working with financial reports, you might be using transaction codes like FBL1N, FBL3N, etc.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or updates related to printing errors. Sometimes, specific patches or updates can resolve underlying issues.
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums for additional insights or similar experiences from other users.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the OA181 error and successfully print your documents from SAP.