How To Fix PO664 - Error processing format (initialization). (l_rc = &4)

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: PO - Spooler message

• Message number: 664

• Message text: Error processing format (initialization). (l_rc = &4)

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.

Unfortunately, there isn't any extra information in this error notice.

What else can you do?

First, use our AnswerBot below to get a possible cause and solution (requires a premium subscription).

Also, review the in-depth Common Questions & Answers listed below; you could discover a solution there or be able to connect with others who have faced similar challenges.

You can also try searching the SAP support portal (support.sap.com) but you need a special user ID to access it. It is possible that an SAP support note exists that provides additional details about the mistake or even steps for fixing it.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message PO664 - Error processing format (initialization). (l_rc = &4) ?

  The SAP error message PO664, which states "Error processing format (initialization). (l_rc = &4)," typically occurs during the processing of a print layout or output format in SAP. This error can arise in various contexts, such as when generating print layouts for purchase orders, invoices, or other documents.
  Cause:
  The error can be caused by several factors, including:
  
  Incorrect or Missing Print Layout: The specified print layout or form may not exist, or it may not be correctly configured.
  Authorization Issues: The user may not have the necessary authorizations to access the print layout or execute the print job.
  Technical Issues: There may be issues with the underlying technology, such as problems with the SAPscript, SmartForms, or Adobe Forms used for the print layout.
  Data Issues: The data being processed may be incomplete or incorrect, leading to initialization errors when trying to format the output.
  Configuration Errors: Incorrect settings in the output determination or output type configuration can lead to this error.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the PO664 error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Check Print Layout:
  
  Verify that the print layout or form you are trying to use exists and is correctly configured.
  If using SmartForms or SAPscript, ensure that the form is activated and has no errors.
  
  
  
  Review Authorizations:
  
  Ensure that the user has the necessary authorizations to execute the print job and access the relevant forms.
  
  
  
  Analyze the Output Type:
  
  Check the output type configuration in the relevant transaction (e.g., ME9F for purchase orders) to ensure it is set up correctly.
  Make sure that the output type is assigned to the document type and that the correct form is linked.
  
  
  
  Debugging:
  
  If you have access to debugging tools, you can analyze the program or function module that is generating the error to identify the root cause.
  Look for any specific error messages or logs that provide more context about the failure.
  
  
  
  Check Data:
  
  Ensure that the data being processed is complete and valid. Missing or incorrect data can lead to initialization errors.
  
  
  
  Consult SAP Notes:
  
  Search for relevant SAP Notes in the SAP Support Portal that may address this specific error or provide additional troubleshooting steps.
  
  
  
  Contact SAP Support:
  
  If the issue persists after trying the above steps, consider reaching out to SAP Support for further assistance.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: ME9F (Output Determination for Purchase Orders), SMARTFORMS (for SmartForms), SE71 (for SAPscript).
  SAP Notes: Always check for any relevant SAP Notes that may provide fixes or workarounds for known issues related to this error.
  Documentation: Review SAP documentation related to output management and form design for additional insights.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to diagnose and resolve the PO664 error in your SAP environment.