How To Fix PT020 - Specify printer name

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: PT - Messages for ABAP print functions

• Message number: 020

• Message text: Specify printer name

What causes this issue?

The field for the printer name is blank.

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?

Please specify a printer.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message PT020 - Specify printer name ?

  The SAP error message PT020 "Specify printer name" typically occurs when a user attempts to print a document or report without specifying a printer. This can happen in various SAP transactions where printing is involved, such as when generating reports, invoices, or other documents.
  Cause:
  The error is caused by the absence of a specified printer in the print settings. This can occur due to several reasons:
  
  The user did not select a printer before attempting to print.
  The default printer is not set in the user profile.
  The printer configuration in the SAP system is incorrect or incomplete.
  The user does not have the necessary authorizations to access the specified printer.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the PT020 error, you can follow these steps:
  
  
  Select a Printer:
  
  When you initiate the print job, ensure that you select a printer from the list of available printers. This can usually be done in the print dialog box that appears.
  
  
  
  Set a Default Printer:
  
  You can set a default printer in your SAP user profile:
  
  Go to the SAP Easy Access screen.
  Navigate to System > User Profile > Own Data (or use transaction code SU3).
  In the "Defaults" tab, specify a default printer in the "Printer" field.
  Save your changes.
  
  
  
  
  
  Check Printer Configuration:
  
  Ensure that the printer is correctly configured in the SAP system. This can be done by an SAP Basis administrator:
  
  Use transaction code SPAD to access the Spool Administration.
  Check if the printer is defined and active.
  Verify that the printer settings (such as device type, output device, etc.) are correct.
  
  
  
  
  
  Check Authorizations:
  
  Ensure that you have the necessary authorizations to access the printer. If you suspect authorization issues, contact your SAP security administrator.
  
  
  
  Test the Printer:
  
  After making the necessary changes, test the printer by trying to print a simple document or report to ensure that it is functioning correctly.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  Transaction Codes:
  
  SPAD: Spool Administration (for printer configuration)
  SU3: User Profile (to set default printer)
  
  
  
  SAP Notes and Documentation:
  
  Check SAP Notes for any specific issues related to your version of SAP or specific printers.
  
  
  
  User Training:
  
  Ensure that users are trained on how to select printers and understand the printing process within SAP.
  
  
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the PT020 error and successfully print your documents in SAP.