How To Fix PO804 - Work file cannot be created

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: PO - Spooler message

• Message number: 804

• Message text: Work file cannot be created

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 PO804 - Work file cannot be created ?

  The SAP error message PO804, which states "Work file cannot be created," typically occurs when the system is unable to create a work file for processing. This can happen for several reasons, and understanding the cause is essential for finding a solution. Here are some common causes, solutions, and related information:
  Causes:
  
  
  Insufficient Disk Space: The most common reason for this error is that the disk space on the application server is full, preventing the creation of new work files.
  
  
  File System Permissions: The user or the SAP system may not have the necessary permissions to create files in the designated directory.
  
  
  Temporary Directory Issues: The temporary directory used by SAP for work files may be misconfigured or not accessible.
  
  
  System Configuration: Incorrect configuration settings in the SAP system related to file handling or work processes.
  
  
  Operating System Limitations: The operating system may have restrictions or limitations that prevent file creation.
  
  
  Solutions:
  
  
  Check Disk Space:
  
  Log in to the application server and check the available disk space using commands like df -h (on Unix/Linux) or checking properties on Windows.
  If the disk is full, consider cleaning up unnecessary files or increasing the disk space.
  
  
  
  Verify Permissions:
  
  Ensure that the SAP user has the necessary permissions to write to the directory where work files are created.
  Check the permissions of the temporary directory (usually defined in the instance profile).
  
  
  
  Check Temporary Directory Configuration:
  
  Verify the configuration of the temporary directory in the SAP instance profile (parameters like DIR_TEMP).
  Ensure that the directory exists and is writable.
  
  
  
  Review System Configuration:
  
  Check the SAP system configuration for any settings related to work file handling.
  Consult the SAP Basis team to ensure that the system is configured correctly.
  
  
  
  Operating System Checks:
  
  Review any operating system-level restrictions that might be affecting file creation.
  Check for any quotas or limits set on the user or directory.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Search for relevant SAP Notes in the SAP Support Portal that may address specific issues related to error PO804.
  Transaction Codes: Use transaction codes like SM37 to check for job logs and see if there are any additional error messages that provide more context.
  System Logs: Review the system logs (transaction SM21) for any related error messages that might give more insight into the issue.
  
  If the problem persists after trying the above solutions, it may be necessary to involve your SAP Basis team or consult SAP support for further assistance.