How To Fix PO172 - Specified character number was too big

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: PO - Spooler message

• Message number: 172

• Message text: Specified character number was too big

What causes this issue?

The character number entered is outside the area of the displayed list.

The system issues an error message and will not allow you to continue with this transaction until the error is resolved.

System Response

How to fix this error?

Enter a smaller character number that is within the displayed list.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message PO172 - Specified character number was too big ?

  The SAP error message PO172 ("Specified character number was too big") typically occurs when there is an issue with the length of a character string being processed in a program or transaction. This error can arise in various contexts, such as when dealing with text fields, descriptions, or other character-based data.
  Causes:
  
  Exceeding Character Limits: The most common cause is that the input data exceeds the defined length for a particular field. For example, if a field is defined to accept a maximum of 30 characters, and you try to input 35 characters, this error will occur.
  Data Type Mismatch: If there is a mismatch between the expected data type and the actual data being processed, it can lead to this error.
  Custom Code Issues: If there are custom programs or enhancements that manipulate character strings, they may not handle the lengths correctly, leading to this error.
  Configuration Issues: Sometimes, configuration settings in the system may not align with the data being processed, causing length-related errors.
  
  Solutions:
  
  Check Input Data: Review the data being entered or processed to ensure it does not exceed the maximum length defined for the relevant fields. Adjust the input accordingly.
  Field Length Definitions: Verify the field length definitions in the data dictionary (SE11) or the relevant configuration settings to ensure they are set correctly.
  Debugging Custom Code: If the error is occurring in a custom program, use the ABAP debugger to trace the execution and identify where the character length is being exceeded. Modify the code to handle character lengths appropriately.
  Review Configuration: Check the configuration settings related to the transaction or module where the error occurs. Ensure that they are set up correctly to handle the expected data lengths.
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or notes related to the specific transaction or module to see if there are known issues or recommendations regarding character lengths.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Depending on where the error occurs, you may want to check specific transaction codes related to the module you are working with (e.g., ME21N for Purchase Orders).
  SAP Notes: Search for relevant SAP Notes in the SAP Support Portal that may address this specific error or provide additional context.
  Community Forums: Consider checking SAP Community forums or other user groups for similar issues and solutions shared by other users.
  
  If the problem persists after trying the above solutions, it may be beneficial to reach out to your SAP support team or consult with an SAP expert for further assistance.