How To Fix /SAPMP/PUR017 - Length characteristic &1 is not a multiple of &2

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: /SAPMP/PUR -

• Message number: 017

• Message text: Length characteristic &1 is not a multiple of &2

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 /SAPMP/PUR017 - Length characteristic &1 is not a multiple of &2 ?

  The SAP error message /SAPMP/PUR017 Length characteristic &1 is not a multiple of &2 typically occurs in the context of SAP Materials Management (MM) or Purchasing modules. This error indicates that there is a mismatch in the expected length of a characteristic in a material or purchasing document.
  Cause:
  
  Characteristic Length Mismatch: The error arises when a characteristic's length defined in the system does not match the expected length. For example, if a characteristic is defined to have a length of 10, but the value being assigned to it is not a multiple of 10, this error will be triggered.
  Configuration Issues: This can also happen due to incorrect configuration in the material master or in the characteristics of the material being processed.
  Data Entry Errors: Sometimes, manual data entry errors can lead to this issue, where the input does not conform to the expected format or length.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Characteristic Definition: Go to the configuration settings for the characteristic in question. Ensure that the length of the characteristic is correctly defined and that it matches the expected input.
  
  Transaction Code: CT04 (for characteristics) or CT02 (for changing characteristics).
  
  
  Review Material Master Data: Check the material master data for the material that is causing the error. Ensure that all characteristics are correctly filled out and conform to the defined lengths.
  
  Transaction Code: MM02 (to change material master data).
  
  
  Adjust Input Values: If the input value is incorrect, adjust it to ensure it is a multiple of the defined length. For example, if the length is defined as 10, ensure that the input is either 0, 10, 20, etc.
  Consult Documentation: If you are unsure about the expected lengths or characteristics, consult the documentation or help files related to the specific module you are working with.
  Testing: After making changes, test the process again to ensure that the error is resolved.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message. Sometimes, SAP releases notes that provide additional context or solutions for specific error messages.
  User Forums: SAP Community and other user forums can be helpful to see if other users have encountered the same issue and how they resolved it.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes for material management and characteristics, as they will help you navigate the system more effectively.
  
  If the issue persists after following these steps, it may be necessary to involve your SAP support team or a consultant who specializes in SAP MM or purchasing processes.