How To Fix PO214 - Format type & is already in use

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: PO - Spooler message

• Message number: 214

• Message text: Format type & is already in use

What causes this issue?

This format type cannot be deleted because it is used in other tables.

System Response

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

How to fix this error?

To delete the format type, proceed as follows:
-- Press F3 to return to the list of format types.
-- From the list, call the delete function again. You will see a list
of tables, in which this format type is used.
-- You must delete the format type from these tables before it can
be deleted from the list of format types.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message PO214 - Format type & is already in use ?

  The SAP error message PO214, which states "Format type & is already in use," typically occurs when you are trying to create or modify a format type in SAP that is already being utilized in the system. This can happen in various contexts, such as when dealing with output formats for documents, print layouts, or other configuration settings.
  Cause:
  
  Existing Usage: The format type you are trying to create or modify is already assigned to an output type, print program, or another configuration in the system.
  Configuration Overlap: There may be multiple configurations or settings that reference the same format type, leading to conflicts.
  Locked Objects: Sometimes, the format type may be locked due to ongoing processes or transactions.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Existing Assignments:
  
  Use transaction codes like NACE (for output types) or SPAD (for device types) to check where the format type is currently being used.
  Look for any output types, print programs, or other configurations that reference the format type in question.
  
  
  
  Modify or Delete Existing Usage:
  
  If you find that the format type is indeed in use, you may need to either modify the existing configuration to use a different format type or delete the existing assignment if it is no longer needed.
  
  
  
  Create a New Format Type:
  
  If the existing format type cannot be modified or deleted, consider creating a new format type with a different name or identifier.
  
  
  
  Check for Locks:
  
  If you suspect that the format type is locked, check for any active sessions or processes that might be using it. You can use transaction SM12 to view and manage locks.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Review SAP documentation or help resources for specific guidance related to the context in which you are encountering the error.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  Transaction Codes:
  
  NACE: Output Types Configuration
  SPAD: Spool Administration
  SE78: SAP ArchiveLink Administration
  SE11: Data Dictionary (to check table usage)
  
  
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message. You can search for relevant notes in the SAP Support Portal.
  
  
  Community Forums: Consider visiting SAP Community forums or other user groups where similar issues may have been discussed.
  
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the PO214 error and implement a solution to resolve it.