How To Fix /SAPAPO/TSM196 - Incorrect characteristics combination(s)

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: /SAPAPO/TSM -

• Message number: 196

• Message text: Incorrect characteristics combination(s)

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message /SAPAPO/TSM196 - Incorrect characteristics combination(s) ?

  The SAP error message /SAPAPO/TSM196 Incorrect characteristics combination(s) typically occurs in the context of SAP Advanced Planning and Optimization (APO), particularly when dealing with the configuration of products and their characteristics in the system. This error indicates that there is an issue with the combination of characteristics assigned to a product or a planning object.
  Cause:
  
  
  Invalid Characteristic Combinations: The characteristics assigned to a product do not match the allowed combinations defined in the system. This can happen if:
  
  Certain characteristics are mutually exclusive.
  The combination of characteristics does not meet the predefined rules in the configuration settings.
  
  
  
  Master Data Issues: There may be inconsistencies or errors in the master data related to the product, such as missing or incorrect characteristic values.
  
  
  Configuration Settings: The configuration settings for the product might not be set up correctly, leading to invalid combinations.
  
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Characteristic Combinations:
  
  Review the characteristics assigned to the product and ensure that they are valid and allowed according to the configuration settings.
  Use transaction codes like CT04 to check the characteristics and their allowed values.
  
  
  
  Review Product Master Data:
  
  Go to the product master data and verify that all required characteristics are correctly assigned and populated.
  Ensure that there are no missing values or incorrect entries.
  
  
  
  Adjust Configuration Settings:
  
  If you have access, check the configuration settings for the product in the APO system. Make sure that the allowed combinations of characteristics are correctly defined.
  If necessary, update the configuration to allow the desired combinations.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for guidance on characteristic combinations and configuration settings.
  
  
  
  Testing:
  
  After making changes, test the configuration by attempting to create or modify the product again to see if the error persists.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as CT04 (to maintain characteristics) and CT03 (to display characteristics).
  SAP Notes: Check for any SAP Notes related to this error message, as they may provide specific fixes or updates.
  User Forums: Engage with SAP community forums or user groups for additional insights and solutions from other users who may have encountered similar issues.
  
  If the problem persists after following these steps, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP support team or a technical consultant who specializes in SAP APO for further assistance.