How To Fix QA198 - The date is before the specified start of the factory calendar

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: QA - QM : Inspection lots

• Message number: 198

• Message text: The date is before the specified start of the factory calendar

What causes this issue?

You entered a date that is outside the defined factory calendar.

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

System Response

How to fix this error?

Enter a different date or change the factory calendar.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message QA198 - The date is before the specified start of the factory calendar ?

  The SAP error message QA198 indicates that a date you are trying to use is earlier than the start date defined in the factory calendar. This typically occurs in the context of quality management (QM) processes, where specific dates are required for inspections, audits, or other quality-related activities.
  Cause:
  
  Incorrect Date Entry: The date you are trying to enter (e.g., inspection date, audit date) is before the start date of the factory calendar.
  Factory Calendar Configuration: The factory calendar may not be set up correctly, or the start date may not align with your operational requirements.
  System Settings: The system may have default settings that restrict dates to a certain range based on the factory calendar.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check the Date: Verify the date you are trying to enter. Ensure it is correct and intended.
  Review Factory Calendar:
  
  Go to the transaction code SCAL (Maintain Factory Calendar) in SAP.
  Check the start date of the factory calendar and ensure it aligns with your operational needs.
  If necessary, adjust the factory calendar to extend the start date or create a new factory calendar that fits your requirements.
  
  
  Adjust Settings: If the factory calendar is correct but the error persists, check if there are any specific settings in the quality management module that might be enforcing date restrictions.
  Consult Documentation: Review SAP documentation or consult with your SAP administrator for any specific configurations that might be affecting date entries.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Factory Calendar: This is a calendar that defines working days and holidays for a specific plant or company code. It is crucial for scheduling and planning activities in SAP.
  Quality Management Module: The QM module in SAP is used for managing quality processes, including inspections, audits, and quality control.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as QA01 (Create Inspection Lot), QA02 (Change Inspection Lot), and QA03 (Display Inspection Lot) to understand where the error might be occurring.
  
  If the issue persists after checking the above points, it may be beneficial to reach out to your SAP support team or consult SAP Notes for any known issues related to this error message.