How To Fix QE398 - You cannot enter negative values

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: QE - RM-QSS Fehlertexte zur Ergebniserfassung

• Message number: 398

• Message text: You cannot enter negative values

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message QE398 - You cannot enter negative values ?

  The SAP error message QE398, which states "You cannot enter negative values," typically occurs in the context of quality management (QM) processes, particularly when dealing with inspection lots, results recording, or quality notifications. This error indicates that the system does not allow negative values for certain fields, which are expected to contain only positive values or zero.
  Cause:
  
  
  Negative Value Entry: The most straightforward cause is that a user is attempting to enter a negative value in a field that does not accept it. This could happen in various scenarios, such as:
  
  Entering negative quantities for inspection results.
  Inputting negative values for characteristics that are defined to only accept non-negative values.
  
  
  
  Configuration Settings: The configuration of the inspection characteristics or the quality management module may restrict negative values. This is often set up to ensure data integrity and compliance with quality standards.
  
  
  Data Entry Errors: Users may inadvertently enter negative values due to typographical errors or misunderstanding of the data entry requirements.
  
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Input Values: Review the values being entered in the relevant fields. Ensure that all quantities, scores, or measurements are non-negative. Correct any negative entries to zero or a positive value as appropriate.
  
  
  Review Inspection Characteristics: If the error persists, check the configuration of the inspection characteristics in the Quality Management module. Ensure that the characteristics are set up correctly to accept the intended range of values.
  
  
  User Training: Provide training or documentation to users to clarify the requirements for data entry in the quality management processes. This can help prevent future occurrences of the error.
  
  
  System Configuration: If necessary, consult with your SAP administrator or a functional consultant to review the configuration settings in the QM module. They may need to adjust the settings if there is a legitimate business case for allowing negative values in specific scenarios.
  
  
  Error Handling: Implement error handling procedures to catch and address such issues proactively, ensuring that users are alerted to incorrect entries before they attempt to save or process data.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message. SAP frequently updates its software, and there may be specific notes addressing this error.
  Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation for the Quality Management module to understand the expected data formats and constraints for various fields.
  Community Forums: Engage with SAP community forums or user groups where similar issues may have been discussed, providing insights or solutions from other users' experiences.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the QE398 error and ensure that your quality management processes run smoothly.