How To Fix PM038 - Loop in the bank chain with routing control code &1

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: PM - Extended Payment Functions

• Message number: 038

• Message text: Loop in the bank chain with routing control code &1

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message PM038 - Loop in the bank chain with routing control code &1 ?

  The SAP error message PM038, which states "Loop in the bank chain with routing control code &1," typically occurs in the context of payment processing or bank communication within the SAP system. This error indicates that there is a circular reference or loop in the bank chain configuration, which prevents the system from processing the payment correctly.
  Cause:
  The primary cause of this error is a misconfiguration in the bank chain setup. Specifically, it occurs when the routing control codes for the banks involved in the payment process create a loop. This can happen if:
  
  Incorrect Routing Control Codes: The routing control codes assigned to the banks are not set up correctly, leading to a situation where the system cannot determine the correct path for processing payments.
  Circular References: There are circular references in the bank chain configuration, where a bank is set to route payments back to itself or to another bank that eventually routes back to the original bank.
  Configuration Errors: Errors in the configuration of the payment methods or bank accounts can also lead to this issue.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the PM038 error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Review Bank Chain Configuration:
  
  Go to the configuration settings for the bank chain in SAP (Transaction code: OBPM1 or similar).
  Check the routing control codes for each bank involved in the payment process.
  Ensure that there are no circular references in the routing paths.
  
  
  
  Correct Routing Control Codes:
  
  If you identify any incorrect routing control codes, update them to reflect the correct paths for payment processing.
  Make sure that each bank in the chain has a clear and direct route to the next bank without looping back.
  
  
  
  Test Payment Processing:
  
  After making the necessary changes, test the payment processing to ensure that the error no longer occurs.
  Monitor the payment runs to confirm that they are processed successfully.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for specific guidance on configuring bank chains and routing control codes.
  
  
  
  Seek Expert Assistance:
  
  If the issue persists, consider consulting with an SAP expert or your organization's SAP support team for further analysis and troubleshooting.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as OBPM1 (for bank chain configuration) and FBZP (for payment methods in country).
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to bank chain configurations and the PM038 error.
  Payment Methods: Ensure that the payment methods used are compatible with the bank chain configuration.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the cause of the PM038 error in your SAP system.