How To Fix PO118 - Specify a device type

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: PO - Spooler message

• Message number: 118

• Message text: Specify a device type

Self-Explanatory Message

Since SAP believes that this specific error message is 'self-explanatory,' no more information has been given.The majority of messages in the SAP system have a message text, however this is frequently insufficient to comprehend or resolve the problem.

To make things easier, more detailed information is frequently added to describe the issue, how to fix it, and the necessary steps or configuration modifications.

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message PO118 - Specify a device type ?

  The SAP error message PO118: Specify a device type typically occurs when a user attempts to print a document or output in SAP without specifying a valid device type for the printer. This can happen in various scenarios, such as when creating a print layout or when trying to print a report.
  Cause:
  
  Missing Device Type: The printer configuration does not have a device type assigned, or the device type is not specified in the print settings.
  Incorrect Printer Configuration: The printer may not be properly configured in the SAP system.
  User Profile Settings: The user profile may not have the necessary settings to specify a device type for printing.
  Output Type Configuration: The output type being used may not have a device type assigned.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the PO118 error, you can follow these steps:
  
  
  Check Printer Configuration:
  
  Go to transaction SPAD (Spool Administration).
  Check the list of printers and ensure that the printer you are trying to use is configured correctly.
  Verify that a valid device type is assigned to the printer.
  
  
  
  Specify Device Type in Output Settings:
  
  If you are using a specific output type, ensure that the output type has a device type assigned.
  You can check this in transaction NACE (Output Types) by selecting the relevant application area and output type.
  
  
  
  User Profile Settings:
  
  Check the user profile settings to ensure that the default printer and device type are set correctly.
  You can do this in transaction SU01 (User Maintenance) by checking the user’s default settings.
  
  
  
  Assign Device Type in Print Layout:
  
  If you are working with a specific print layout, ensure that the layout specifies a device type.
  You can check this in the layout settings or the print program.
  
  
  
  Test Printing:
  
  After making the necessary changes, try to print again to see if the error persists.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Device Types: Device types in SAP define the characteristics of printers, such as the format of the output, the capabilities of the printer, and how data is sent to the printer.
  Spool Administration (SPAD): This transaction is used to manage printers, device types, and spool requests in SAP.
  Output Management: Understanding how output types and device types work together is crucial for effective printing in SAP.
  
  If the issue persists after following these steps, it may be necessary to consult with your SAP Basis team or refer to SAP support for further assistance.