How To Fix SF886 - & is not a valid output device

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: SF - SAPfind: Message Texts

• Message number: 886

• Message text: & is not a valid output device

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.

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message SF886 - & is not a valid output device ?

  The SAP error message "SF886 & is not a valid output device" typically indicates that the system is unable to recognize the specified output device (like a printer) when trying to execute a print job or generate output. This can occur for various reasons, and here are some common causes, solutions, and related information:
  Causes:
  
  Incorrect Output Device Name: The output device name specified in the print settings may be misspelled or does not exist in the system.
  Device Not Configured: The output device may not be configured correctly in the SAP system.
  Device Status: The output device may be offline or not available for use.
  Authorization Issues: The user may not have the necessary authorizations to access the specified output device.
  Device Type Issues: The device type associated with the output device may not be correctly defined or may not match the actual printer capabilities.
  
  Solutions:
  
  
  Check Output Device Name:
  
  Verify that the output device name is correct. You can do this by going to the transaction code SPAD (Spool Administration) and checking the list of configured output devices.
  
  
  
  Configure Output Device:
  
  If the output device does not exist, you may need to create it in SPAD. Ensure that you provide the correct parameters, including the device type and connection type.
  
  
  
  Check Device Status:
  
  Ensure that the output device is online and available. You can check the status in SPAD or by consulting with your system administrator.
  
  
  
  Review Authorizations:
  
  Check if the user has the necessary authorizations to use the output device. This can be done by reviewing the user roles and authorizations in the user management area.
  
  
  
  Verify Device Type:
  
  Ensure that the device type assigned to the output device is compatible with the printer being used. You can check and modify the device type in SPAD.
  
  
  
  Test Print:
  
  After making any changes, perform a test print to ensure that the output device is functioning correctly.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  
  Transaction Codes:
  
  SPAD: Spool Administration - where you can manage output devices.
  SP01: Spool Request - to view and manage spool requests.
  
  
  
  Documentation: Refer to SAP Help documentation for detailed instructions on configuring output devices and troubleshooting print issues.
  
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to output devices and printing.
  
  
  If the problem persists after trying the above solutions, it may be beneficial to consult with your SAP Basis team or SAP support for further assistance.