How To Fix PT103 - Use "Field not ready for input" together with spool retention period

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: PT - Messages for ABAP print functions

• Message number: 103

• Message text: Use "Field not ready for input" together with spool retention period

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 PT103 - Use "Field not ready for input" together with spool retention period ?

  The SAP error message PT103, which states "Use 'Field not ready for input' together with spool retention period," typically occurs in the context of SAP HR (Human Resources) or Payroll processing. This error is related to the configuration of the spool retention period and how it interacts with the input fields in the system.
  Cause:
  
  
  Field Not Ready for Input: This error indicates that the system is expecting a certain field to be editable or ready for input, but it is not. This can happen if the field is set to be non-editable due to the current status of the document or transaction.
  
  
  Spool Retention Period: The spool retention period defines how long the spool requests (print jobs) are kept in the system before they are deleted. If the retention period is not configured correctly, it can lead to issues when trying to access or modify spool requests.
  
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Configuration: Review the configuration settings for the spool retention period in the SAP system. Ensure that the settings are appropriate for your organization's needs. You can do this by navigating to the relevant configuration area in SPAD (Spool Administration).
  
  
  Field Settings: Verify the settings for the fields in the transaction or report you are working with. Ensure that the fields that need to be editable are set correctly in the screen layout or field status group.
  
  
  User Authorizations: Ensure that the user has the necessary authorizations to modify the fields in question. Sometimes, lack of proper authorizations can lead to fields being non-editable.
  
  
  Check for Locks: If the document or transaction is locked by another user or process, it may prevent fields from being editable. Check for any locks and resolve them if necessary.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or notes related to the specific transaction or module you are working with. There may be specific guidelines or known issues that can provide further insight.
  
  
  SAP Support: If the issue persists after checking the above points, consider reaching out to SAP support for assistance. They may have additional insights or patches that can resolve the issue.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  SPAD Transaction: This transaction is used for managing spool requests and printer settings in SAP. Familiarize yourself with its functionalities to better manage spool-related issues.
  
  
  Field Status Groups: Understanding how field status groups work in SAP can help in troubleshooting issues related to field editability.
  
  
  SAP Notes: Search for relevant SAP Notes in the SAP Support Portal that may address this specific error message or provide additional troubleshooting steps.
  
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the PT103 error and implement a solution to resolve it.