How To Fix PO336 - OTF module: Failed to request system character set

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: PO - Spooler message

• Message number: 336

• Message text: OTF module: Failed to request system character set

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 PO336 - OTF module: Failed to request system character set ?

  The SAP error message PO336, which indicates "OTF module: Failed to request system character set," typically occurs when there is an issue with the output formatting of a document, particularly when using the OTF (Output Text Format) for printing or generating documents. This error can arise due to various reasons, including configuration issues, missing or incorrect character set settings, or problems with the printer settings.
  Causes:
  
  
  Character Set Configuration: The system may not be able to determine the correct character set for the output, which can happen if the character set is not properly defined in the SAP system or if there is a mismatch between the character set of the SAP system and the printer.
  
  
  Printer Configuration: The printer settings may not be correctly configured to handle the character set being requested. This can include issues with the printer driver or the printer itself.
  
  
  Output Device Settings: The output device settings in SAP may not be correctly set up to support the required character set.
  
  
  Missing OTF Driver: The OTF driver required for the output may not be installed or configured correctly.
  
  
  SAP Kernel Issues: Sometimes, issues with the SAP kernel version can lead to problems with OTF processing.
  
  
  Solutions:
  
  
  Check Character Set Configuration:
  
  Go to transaction SPAD (Spool Administration) and check the configuration of the output device.
  Ensure that the character set is correctly defined and matches the requirements of the document being printed.
  
  
  
  Review Output Device Settings:
  
  In transaction SPAD, verify the settings for the output device being used. Ensure that the device supports the required character set and that the correct device type is assigned.
  
  
  
  Update Printer Drivers:
  
  Ensure that the printer drivers are up to date and compatible with the SAP system. If necessary, reinstall or update the drivers.
  
  
  
  Check OTF Driver:
  
  Ensure that the OTF driver is correctly installed and configured. You may need to consult SAP documentation or support for specific driver requirements.
  
  
  
  SAP Notes and Support:
  
  Check the SAP Support Portal for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error. There may be patches or updates available that resolve known issues.
  
  
  
  Test with Different Output Devices:
  
  If possible, try using a different output device to see if the issue persists. This can help isolate whether the problem is with the specific printer or the SAP configuration.
  
  
  
  Consult SAP Basis Team:
  
  If the issue persists after trying the above solutions, it may be necessary to involve your SAP Basis team or SAP support for further investigation.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  Transaction Codes: 
  
  SPAD (Spool Administration) for checking and configuring output devices.
  SP01 (Spool Request) to view spool requests and their statuses.
  
  
  
  SAP Documentation: Refer to the official SAP Help Portal for detailed documentation on OTF processing and output device configuration.
  
  
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums for insights from other users who may have encountered similar issues.
  
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to diagnose and resolve the PO336 error in your SAP system.