How To Fix PT018 - Format is not wide enough for this character representation

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: PT - Messages for ABAP print functions

• Message number: 018

• Message text: Format is not wide enough for this character representation

What causes this issue?

You have chosen a Unicode output mode (character format) that can
require twice as much space on paper. This can occur when the printed
list contains a large number of double-width characters, which take up
twice as much space in the printout.
In the standard output mode (character format with fixed output length),
the width of the expression is determined by the print parameter
"LINE-SIZE". Any surplus double-width characters are truncated as soon
as the output width is exceeded.
This truncation does not occur in the chosen output mode, which means
that up to twice as much space may be required.

System Response

The system issues an error message and will not allow you to continue with this transaction until the error is resolved.

How to fix this error?

Choose a wider format.

Procedure for System Administrators

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message PT018 - Format is not wide enough for this character representation ?

  The SAP error message PT018, which states "Format is not wide enough for this character representation," typically occurs in the context of handling character data types in SAP systems, particularly when dealing with character strings that exceed the defined width of a field.
  Cause:
  
  Field Width Limitation: The error usually arises when a character string being processed exceeds the maximum length defined for a particular field in the database or data structure. For example, if a field is defined to hold a maximum of 10 characters, but the input string is longer than that, this error will occur.
  Data Type Mismatch: It can also happen if there is a mismatch between the expected data type and the actual data being processed, especially when dealing with Unicode and non-Unicode character sets.
  Incorrect Data Mapping: If data is being transferred between different systems or modules, incorrect mapping of data types or lengths can lead to this error.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Field Definitions: Review the field definitions in the database or data structure to ensure that they are wide enough to accommodate the expected data. If necessary, increase the field length.
  Data Validation: Implement validation checks before processing data to ensure that the input does not exceed the defined limits. This can be done through input validation routines.
  Adjust Data Mapping: If the error occurs during data transfer, ensure that the data mapping between systems or modules is correctly defined, and that the lengths of the fields match.
  Use Appropriate Data Types: Ensure that the correct data types are being used, especially when dealing with Unicode characters. If the system is expected to handle multi-byte characters, ensure that the fields are defined accordingly.
  Debugging: If the error persists, use debugging tools to trace the data flow and identify where the data exceeds the expected limits.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any specific patches or updates related to this error. SAP frequently releases updates that may address known issues.
  Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation regarding data types and field definitions to understand the limitations and best practices for handling character data.
  Community Forums: Engage with SAP community forums or support channels where similar issues may have been discussed, and solutions shared by other users.
  
  By addressing the field width and ensuring proper data handling practices, you can resolve the PT018 error effectively.