How To Fix SHDI004 - The root directory name has the wrong format.

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: SHDI - Texts Image archive Transaction variants

• Message number: 004

• Message text: The root directory name has the wrong format.

What causes this issue?

The root directory name does not correspond to the conventions.
Do not use special characters in root directory names.
In particular, do not use '\' or '/'. These separate directories.

System Response

The system issues an error message and will not allow you to continue with this transaction until the error is resolved.

How to fix this error?

Enter a name using the letters 'A'...'Z' and the special character '_'.
Avoid the use of '\' or '/'.

Procedure for System Administrators

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message SHDI004 - The root directory name has the wrong format. ?

  The SAP error message SHDI004, which states "The root directory name has the wrong format," typically occurs in the context of SAP's Data Transfer Workbench or when dealing with file paths in the SAP system. This error indicates that the specified root directory for a file operation does not conform to the expected format.
  Cause:
  
  
  Incorrect Path Format: The root directory path may not be formatted correctly. This could include issues such as:
  
  Missing slashes (e.g., using backslashes instead of forward slashes).
  Incorrect use of special characters.
  The path exceeding the maximum length allowed by the system.
  
  
  
  Invalid Characters: The path may contain invalid characters that are not allowed in directory names.
  
  
  Configuration Issues: The system configuration may not be set up correctly to recognize the specified directory.
  
  
  Operating System Compatibility: The path may not be compatible with the operating system on which the SAP system is running.
  
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Path Format: Ensure that the root directory path is correctly formatted. For example, use forward slashes (/) instead of backslashes () if required by the system.
  
  
  Validate Characters: Make sure that the directory name does not contain any invalid characters. Stick to alphanumeric characters and underscores.
  
  
  Configuration Review: Review the configuration settings in the SAP system to ensure that the root directory is correctly defined. This may involve checking transaction codes related to file paths or directory settings.
  
  
  Test with a Simple Path: Try using a simpler path to see if the error persists. For example, use a directory like /sapdata/ to test if the issue is with the complexity of the original path.
  
  
  Consult Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help resources for specific guidelines on directory naming conventions and formats.
  
  
  Check Operating System Settings: Ensure that the directory exists on the file system and that the SAP system has the necessary permissions to access it.
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message. SAP frequently updates its knowledge base with solutions to common problems.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as AL11 (to check directories) or SCC4 (to check client settings) that may help in troubleshooting.
  Logs and Traces: Review system logs and traces for additional context around the error, which may provide more insight into what is causing the issue.
  
  If the problem persists after trying the above solutions, consider reaching out to SAP support or your system administrator for further assistance.