How To Fix PO117 - Enter the physical name of the output device

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: PO - Spooler message

• Message number: 117

• Message text: Enter the physical name of the output device

What causes this issue?

The name of the output in the host system is required here.

System Response

The operation is not executed.

How to fix this error?

Determine the name of the output device in the host system to which the
device is connected. To do this, you can use host system command or
information sources. Then enter the physical name of the output device.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message PO117 - Enter the physical name of the output device ?

  The SAP error message PO117, which states "Enter the physical name of the output device," typically occurs when a user attempts to print a document or report but has not specified a valid output device. This can happen in various SAP transactions where printing is involved, such as creating purchase orders, invoices, or other documents.
  Cause:
  The error is usually caused by one of the following reasons:
  
  Missing Output Device: The user has not selected or specified an output device for printing.
  Incorrect Configuration: The output device may not be configured correctly in the SAP system.
  User Authorization: The user may not have the necessary authorizations to access the specified output device.
  Default Output Device Not Set: The user profile may not have a default output device set, leading to the need to specify one manually.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the PO117 error, you can follow these steps:
  
  
  Specify an Output Device:
  
  When prompted for the output device, enter the physical name of a valid output device. You can find the list of available output devices by clicking on the input help (F4) next to the output device field.
  
  
  
  Check Output Device Configuration:
  
  Go to transaction SPAD (Spool Administration) to check the configuration of output devices. Ensure that the device you are trying to use is correctly configured and active.
  
  
  
  Set Default Output Device:
  
  You can set a default output device in your user profile:
  
  Go to transaction SU01 (User Maintenance).
  Enter your user ID and click on "Change."
  Navigate to the "Defaults" tab and specify a default output device.
  
  
  
  
  
  Check User Authorizations:
  
  Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to use the specified output device. You may need to contact your SAP security administrator if you suspect authorization issues.
  
  
  
  Test the Output Device:
  
  You can test the output device by going to transaction SP01 (Spool Request) and checking if the device is functioning correctly.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Output Device Naming: The physical name of the output device is usually defined in the SAP system and can be a printer, PDF generator, or other output formats.
  Spool Requests: Understanding how spool requests work in SAP can help troubleshoot printing issues. You can view and manage spool requests using transaction SP01.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any specific issues related to your version of SAP that might provide additional insights or patches related to printing errors.
  
  If the problem persists after trying the above solutions, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP Basis team or technical support for further assistance.