How To Fix /PF1/MSG_PO_EH500 - More than one previous item found with REF_ITEM_EXT = &1

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: /PF1/MSG_PO_EH -

• Message number: 500

• Message text: More than one previous item found with REF_ITEM_EXT = &1

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message /PF1/MSG_PO_EH500 - More than one previous item found with REF_ITEM_EXT = &1 ?

  The SAP error message /PF1/MSG_PO_EH500 indicates that there is an issue with the purchase order (PO) processing, specifically related to the reference item (REF_ITEM_EXT). The message suggests that the system has found more than one previous item associated with the specified reference item, which is causing a conflict.
  Cause:
  
  Duplicate Reference Items: The error typically arises when there are multiple entries in the database that share the same reference item (REF_ITEM_EXT). This can happen due to data entry errors, system migrations, or incorrect configurations.
  Data Integrity Issues: There may be inconsistencies in the data that lead to multiple records being associated with the same reference item.
  Configuration Issues: The system may not be configured correctly to handle the reference items, leading to conflicts.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check for Duplicates: 
  
  Use transaction codes like SE16 or SE11 to check the relevant database tables (e.g., EKKO, EKPO) for duplicate entries with the same REF_ITEM_EXT.
  Identify and resolve any duplicates by either deleting or merging them as appropriate.
  
  
  
  Data Correction:
  
  If duplicates are found, correct the data by ensuring that each reference item is unique or by updating the records to reflect the correct associations.
  
  
  
  Review Configuration:
  
  Check the configuration settings related to purchase orders and reference items in the SAP system. Ensure that the settings align with business processes and do not allow for duplicate entries.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Review SAP documentation or notes related to this error message for any specific guidance or patches that may address the issue.
  
  
  
  Engage SAP Support:
  
  If the issue persists after checking for duplicates and correcting data, consider reaching out to SAP support for further assistance. They may provide insights or solutions based on the specific version and configuration of your SAP system.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as ME21N (Create Purchase Order), ME22N (Change Purchase Order), and ME23N (Display Purchase Order) to manage purchase orders effectively.
  SAP Notes: Search for SAP Notes related to this error message in the SAP Support Portal for any known issues or fixes.
  Data Management: Implement data management practices to prevent future occurrences of duplicate reference items, such as validation checks during data entry.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the error and implement a solution to resolve it.