How To Fix PPE_MESSAGE032 - External reference can be set to new items only. Key &1|&2

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: PPE_MESSAGE - Messages for PPE

• Message number: 032

• Message text: External reference can be set to new items only. Key &1|&2

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message PPE_MESSAGE032 - External reference can be set to new items only. Key &1|&2 ?

  The SAP error message PPE_MESSAGE032 indicates that an external reference can only be assigned to new items in the system. This typically occurs in the context of Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) or when dealing with materials and their external references in SAP.
  Cause:
  The error arises when you attempt to assign an external reference (like a document, URL, or other external identifiers) to an existing item or material that already has a reference. The system restricts this action to ensure data integrity and consistency, as external references are meant to be associated with new items only.
  Solution:
  To resolve this error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Check Item Status: Ensure that the item you are trying to assign the external reference to is indeed a new item. If it is an existing item, you will need to create a new item or modify the existing item in a way that allows for the assignment of a new external reference.
  
  
  Create a New Item: If you need to associate an external reference with a new item, create a new item in the system and then assign the external reference to it.
  
  
  Review External Reference Assignment: If you believe the item should allow for an external reference, review the configuration settings in your SAP system to ensure that the rules governing external references are set correctly.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for specific guidelines on handling external references in your version of SAP.
  
  
  Contact Support: If the issue persists or if you need further assistance, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting with an SAP expert who can provide more tailored guidance based on your specific configuration and requirements.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that might address this specific error or provide additional context.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with transaction codes related to material management and external references, such as MM01 (Create Material) or MM02 (Change Material).
  User Roles and Permissions: Ensure that your user role has the necessary permissions to create or modify items and their external references.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to address the error and successfully manage external references in your SAP system.