How To Fix SD764 - Format character & unknown

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: SD - Online doc., terminology, translation, help

• Message number: 764

• Message text: Format character & unknown

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.

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message SD764 - Format character & unknown ?

  The SAP error message SD764 ("Format character & unknown") typically occurs in the context of Sales and Distribution (SD) when there is an issue with the formatting of data, particularly when dealing with output types, forms, or print layouts. This error indicates that the system has encountered an unknown format character in the output processing.
  Causes:
  
  Incorrect Output Format: The output format specified in the configuration may contain invalid or unsupported format characters.
  Custom Forms: If you are using a custom form or layout, it may have been incorrectly defined or may contain syntax errors.
  Missing or Incorrect Configuration: The output type or related configuration may not be set up correctly in the system.
  Data Issues: The data being processed may contain unexpected characters or formats that the system cannot interpret.
  
  Solutions:
  
  
  Check Output Configuration:
  
  Go to the output type configuration in transaction code NACE (for Sales Document).
  Verify that the output type is correctly configured and that the format specified is valid.
  
  
  
  Review Custom Forms:
  
  If you are using a custom form (e.g., Smart Forms, SAPscript), check the form for any syntax errors or unsupported format characters.
  Ensure that the form is activated and properly linked to the output type.
  
  
  
  Test with Standard Forms:
  
  If you are using a custom form, try switching to a standard SAP form to see if the error persists. This can help isolate whether the issue is with the custom form.
  
  
  
  Check for Updates:
  
  Ensure that your SAP system is up to date with the latest patches and updates, as this can sometimes resolve unexpected errors.
  
  
  
  Debugging:
  
  If you have access to debugging tools, you can set breakpoints in the output processing logic to identify where the error is occurring.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Review SAP documentation or notes related to the specific output type and format characters to ensure compliance with expected formats.
  
  
  
  Contact SAP Support:
  
  If the issue persists after checking the above points, consider reaching out to SAP support for further assistance, especially if it appears to be a bug or a more complex issue.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: 
  
  NACE - Output Types Configuration
  SMARTFORMS - Smart Forms
  SE71 - SAPscript Form Maintenance
  
  
  SAP Notes: Search for relevant SAP Notes in the SAP Support Portal that may address this specific error or provide additional troubleshooting steps.
  Community Forums: Check SAP Community forums or other user groups for similar issues and solutions shared by other users.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the cause of the SD764 error in your SAP system.