How To Fix PO671 - Error formatting (start line). Page &1, line &2, l_rc = &4

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: PO - Spooler message

• Message number: 671

• Message text: Error formatting (start line). Page &1, line &2, 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.

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message PO671 - Error formatting (start line). Page &1, line &2, l_rc = &4 ?

  The SAP error message PO671, which indicates an issue with formatting in a print layout or output, typically arises during the printing or output generation process. The error message provides specific details about the page and line number where the formatting issue occurred, as well as a return code (l_rc) that can help diagnose the problem.
  Cause:
  
  Incorrect Layout Configuration: The layout or form used for printing may have been incorrectly configured, leading to issues in formatting.
  Data Issues: The data being processed may not conform to the expected format, causing the output to fail.
  Missing or Incorrect Fields: If the layout expects certain fields to be present and they are missing or incorrectly defined, it can lead to formatting errors.
  Version Compatibility: If there are changes in the SAP version or the print layout, it may lead to incompatibility issues.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Layout Configuration:
  
  Review the print layout or form configuration in SAP Smart Forms or SAPscript.
  Ensure that all fields are correctly defined and that the layout is set up to handle the data being processed.
  
  
  
  Validate Data:
  
  Check the data being passed to the print layout. Ensure that it is complete and in the expected format.
  Look for any null or unexpected values that might cause formatting issues.
  
  
  
  Test with Sample Data:
  
  Run tests with sample data to see if the error persists. This can help isolate whether the issue is with the data or the layout.
  
  
  
  Review Return Code:
  
  Analyze the return code (l_rc) provided in the error message. This code can give insights into the specific nature of the error and help in troubleshooting.
  
  
  
  Check for Updates:
  
  Ensure that your SAP system is up to date with the latest patches and updates, as these may resolve known issues.
  
  
  
  Consult SAP Notes:
  
  Search for relevant SAP Notes in the SAP Support Portal that may address this specific error message or provide guidance on similar issues.
  
  
  
  Debugging:
  
  If you have access to development tools, consider debugging the print program to identify where the error occurs.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Smart Forms and SAPscript: Familiarize yourself with the differences between these two tools for designing print layouts.
  Transaction Codes: Use transaction codes like SMARTFORMS or SE71 to access and modify Smart Forms or SAPscript forms, respectively.
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums for additional insights and solutions from other users who may have encountered similar issues.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the cause of the PO671 error in your SAP system.