How To Fix PO831 - Cannot use this device type for Unicode printing

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: PO - Spooler message

• Message number: 831

• Message text: Cannot use this device type for Unicode printing

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 PO831 - Cannot use this device type for Unicode printing ?

  The SAP error message "PO831 Cannot use this device type for Unicode printing" typically occurs when there is an attempt to print a document using a device type that does not support Unicode. This can happen in environments where Unicode characters are used, such as when printing documents that contain special characters or languages that require Unicode support.
  Cause:
  
  Device Type Limitation: The device type assigned to the printer does not support Unicode printing. Many older device types are designed for non-Unicode environments and cannot handle the full range of Unicode characters.
  Incorrect Printer Configuration: The printer may be incorrectly configured in the SAP system, leading to the selection of an incompatible device type.
  SAP Kernel Version: The version of the SAP kernel may not support Unicode printing for the selected device type.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Change Device Type:
  
  Go to the SAP transaction SPAD (Spool Administration).
  Find the printer that is causing the issue.
  Check the device type assigned to the printer.
  Change the device type to one that supports Unicode printing. Common Unicode-compatible device types include SAPWIN, PDF1, or specific device types for printers that support Unicode.
  
  
  
  Update Printer Configuration:
  
  Ensure that the printer is correctly configured in the SAP system.
  Verify that the printer settings in the operating system are compatible with the SAP settings.
  
  
  
  Check SAP Kernel Version:
  
  Ensure that you are using a version of the SAP kernel that supports Unicode printing. If necessary, consider upgrading to a newer version.
  
  
  
  Test Printing:
  
  After making changes, perform a test print to ensure that the issue is resolved.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Unicode Support: Unicode is a standard for encoding characters that allows for the representation of text in most of the world's writing systems. It is essential for applications that need to support multiple languages and special characters.
  Device Types: Device types in SAP define how data is formatted for printing. Each device type has specific capabilities, and not all support Unicode.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any specific guidance or patches related to Unicode printing issues. SAP frequently updates its documentation and provides solutions for known issues.
  
  If the problem persists after trying the above solutions, consider reaching out to your SAP Basis team or SAP support for further assistance.