How To Fix PO137 - Page format must begin with an alpha character

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: PO - Spooler message

• Message number: 137

• Message text: Page format must begin with an alpha character

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message PO137 - Page format must begin with an alpha character ?

  The SAP error message PO137, which states "Page format must begin with an alpha character," typically occurs when there is an issue with the page format settings in SAPscript or Smart Forms. This error indicates that the page format defined for a print layout does not conform to the expected naming conventions.
  Cause:
  
  Invalid Page Format Name: The page format name may start with a numeric character or contain invalid characters.
  Configuration Issues: The page format might not be properly configured in the SAP system.
  Typographical Errors: There could be a typo in the page format name when it is being referenced in the print program or form.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Page Format Name:
  
  Go to the transaction code SE71 (for SAPscript) or SMARTFORMS (for Smart Forms).
  Verify the page format name being used in your form or script. Ensure that it starts with an alphabetic character (A-Z).
  
  
  
  Modify Page Format:
  
  If the page format name is incorrect, you can either rename it to start with an alphabetic character or create a new page format with a valid name.
  
  
  
  Update Print Program:
  
  If the print program is referencing the incorrect page format, update the program to use the correct page format name.
  
  
  
  Transport Requests:
  
  If changes are made in a development environment, ensure that they are included in a transport request and moved to the appropriate environment (e.g., quality assurance or production).
  
  
  
  Testing:
  
  After making the necessary changes, test the print functionality to ensure that the error is resolved.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAPscript and Smart Forms: These are tools used in SAP for designing print layouts. Understanding how to navigate and configure these tools is essential for resolving issues related to print formats.
  Transaction Codes:
  
  SE71: For SAPscript forms.
  SMARTFORMS: For Smart Forms.
  SE78: For managing SAPscript and Smart Forms.
  
  
  Documentation: Refer to SAP Help documentation for more details on configuring page formats and troubleshooting print issues.
  
  If the problem persists after following these steps, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP Basis or ABAP team for further investigation.