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How To Fix SF981 - & Error when opening the export file


SAP Error Message - Details

  • Message type: E = Error

  • Message class: SF - SAPfind: Message Texts

  • Message number: 981

  • Message text: & Error when opening the export file

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  • 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 SF981 - & Error when opening the export file ?

    The SAP error message SF981 typically indicates an issue related to the export of data, often occurring when trying to generate or download a file from the SAP system. The specific error message "Error when opening the export file" suggests that there is a problem with accessing or creating the file that is intended to be exported.

    Possible Causes:

    1. File Path Issues: The specified path for the export file may not exist, or the system may not have the necessary permissions to write to that location.
    2. File System Permissions: The user or the SAP application may not have the required permissions to create or modify files in the designated directory.
    3. Disk Space: There may not be enough disk space on the server or the specified directory to create the export file.
    4. File Name Conflicts: If a file with the same name already exists and is locked or in use, it may prevent the new file from being created.
    5. Network Issues: If the export is being sent to a network location, there may be connectivity issues or the network path may be incorrect.
    6. SAP Configuration: There may be configuration issues within the SAP system that affect file exports.

    Solutions:

    1. Check File Path: Verify that the file path specified for the export is correct and accessible. Ensure that the directory exists.
    2. Review Permissions: Ensure that the user executing the export has the necessary permissions to write to the specified directory. This may involve checking both SAP and operating system permissions.
    3. Free Up Disk Space: Check the available disk space on the server and ensure there is enough space to create the export file.
    4. Rename or Remove Conflicting Files: If a file with the same name exists, try renaming or deleting it if it is not needed.
    5. Test Network Connectivity: If exporting to a network location, ensure that the network path is correct and that there are no connectivity issues.
    6. Check SAP Configuration: Review the SAP configuration settings related to file exports. This may involve checking transaction codes like AL11 (to check file directories) or SFILE (to manage file settings).
    7. Consult SAP Notes: Look for any relevant SAP Notes or documentation that may address this specific error message. SAP Notes can provide patches or additional troubleshooting steps.

    Related Information:

    • SAP Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with transaction codes that may help in troubleshooting, such as AL11 for file directories, SM37 for job monitoring, and ST22 for dump analysis.
    • SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums or support for additional insights and shared experiences from other users who may have encountered similar issues.
    • SAP Support: If the issue persists, consider reaching out to SAP Support for assistance, providing them with detailed information about the error and the context in which it occurs.

    By following these steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the issue causing the SF981 error in SAP.

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