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How To Fix SY021 - Display format & unknown


SAP Error Message - Details

  • Message type: E = Error

  • Message class: SY - ABAP/4 system messages

  • Message number: 021

  • Message text: Display format & unknown

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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 SY021 - Display format & unknown ?

    The SAP error message SY021, which states "Display format & unknown," typically occurs when there is an issue with the display format of a field in the SAP system. This error can arise in various contexts, such as when displaying data in reports, transactions, or other user interfaces.

    Cause:

    1. Invalid Display Format: The display format specified for a field is not recognized by the system. This can happen if the format is incorrectly defined or if there is a mismatch between the expected format and the actual data type.
    2. Data Type Issues: The data type of the field may not be compatible with the display format being used.
    3. Custom Development: If there are custom programs or enhancements, they may not be handling the display formats correctly.
    4. Configuration Issues: Incorrect configuration settings in the SAP system can lead to this error.

    Solution:

    1. Check Field Definitions: Verify the field definitions in the relevant data dictionary (DDIC) objects. Ensure that the display format is correctly defined and matches the data type.
    2. Review Custom Code: If the error occurs in a custom program, review the code to ensure that the display formats are being handled correctly. Look for any hardcoded formats that may not be valid.
    3. Transaction Settings: If the error occurs in a specific transaction, check the transaction settings and configuration to ensure that they are set up correctly.
    4. SAP Notes: Search for relevant SAP Notes in the SAP Support Portal that may address this specific error. There may be patches or updates available that resolve the issue.
    5. Testing: Test the changes in a development or quality assurance environment before applying them to production to ensure that the issue is resolved without introducing new problems.

    Related Information:

    • SAP Documentation: Refer to the official SAP documentation for guidance on data types and display formats.
    • SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums to see if other users have encountered similar issues and what solutions they have found.
    • Debugging: If you have access to debugging tools, you can use them to trace the execution of the program or transaction to identify where the error is being triggered.

    If the issue persists after trying the above solutions, it may be beneficial to consult with an SAP Basis or ABAP consultant who can provide more in-depth analysis and support.

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