How To Fix /SAPDMC/LSMW807 - The first record of the file '&' is not a valid control record

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: /SAPDMC/LSMW -

• Message number: 807

• Message text: The first record of the file '&' is not a valid control record

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message /SAPDMC/LSMW807 - The first record of the file '&' is not a valid control record ?

  The SAP error message /SAPDMC/LSMW807 indicates that the first record of the file being processed is not a valid control record. This error typically occurs when using the Legacy System Migration Workbench (LSMW) to import data into SAP.
  Cause:
  
  Incorrect File Format: The file being uploaded may not be in the expected format. LSMW expects a specific structure for the control record, and if the first line does not conform to this structure, the error will occur.
  Missing Control Record: The control record, which usually contains metadata about the data being imported (like the type of data, the number of records, etc.), may be missing or incorrectly formatted.
  File Encoding Issues: The file may have been saved in an incompatible encoding format (e.g., UTF-8 vs. ANSI), which can lead to misinterpretation of the control record.
  Leading/Trailing Spaces: There may be leading or trailing spaces in the control record that cause it to be read incorrectly.
  Incorrect Data Mapping: If the data mapping in LSMW is not set up correctly, it may lead to the system expecting a different format than what is provided.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check File Format: Ensure that the file is in the correct format as expected by LSMW. The first line should be a valid control record.
  Review Control Record Structure: Verify that the control record adheres to the required structure. You can refer to the LSMW documentation for the expected format.
  File Encoding: Make sure the file is saved in the correct encoding format. If necessary, convert the file to the required encoding (e.g., ANSI).
  Remove Extra Spaces: Check for and remove any leading or trailing spaces in the control record.
  Validate Data Mapping: Review the data mapping settings in LSMW to ensure they are correctly configured to match the structure of the input file.
  Test with Sample Data: If possible, create a small sample file with a known valid control record and test the import to see if the error persists.
  
  Related Information:
  
  LSMW Documentation: Refer to the official SAP documentation for LSMW for detailed information on the expected file formats and control record structures.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or updates related to LSMW and this specific error message.
  Community Forums: Consider searching or posting on SAP community forums for additional insights from other users who may have encountered similar issues.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the issue causing the /SAPDMC/LSMW807 error message.