How To Fix TD120 - Character string & already exists

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: TD - SAPscript: Text editor, composer, forms, styles and fonts

• Message number: 120

• Message text: Character string & already exists

What causes this issue?

You attempted to create a character string which already exists.

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?

Please select a character string tag not yet used in the layout set as
the code for the new character string.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message TD120 - Character string & already exists ?

  The SAP error message TD120, which states "Character string & already exists," typically occurs in the context of text management within SAP, particularly when dealing with text elements such as short texts, long texts, or other character strings that are meant to be unique within a certain context.
  Cause:
  The error arises when you attempt to create or modify a text element (like a short text or long text) that has the same identifier or key as an existing one. This can happen in various scenarios, such as:
  
  Trying to create a new text entry with a key that is already in use.
  Importing or uploading text data that contains duplicates.
  Modifying an existing text entry without properly checking for existing entries.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the TD120 error, you can take the following steps:
  
  
  Check Existing Entries: 
  
  Use transaction codes like SE11 (Data Dictionary) or SE78 (SAPscript Forms) to check if the character string you are trying to create already exists.
  Look for the specific text object and see if the key you are trying to use is already in the system.
  
  
  
  Modify or Delete Existing Entry:
  
  If you find that the character string already exists and you need to create a new one, consider modifying the existing entry instead of creating a new one.
  If the existing entry is no longer needed, you may delete it if appropriate.
  
  
  
  Use a Unique Identifier:
  
  When creating new text entries, ensure that you are using a unique identifier that does not conflict with existing entries.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Review SAP documentation or help files related to text management to understand the specific requirements and constraints for the text objects you are working with.
  
  
  
  Check for Transport Issues:
  
  If this error occurs during a transport process, ensure that the transport request does not contain duplicate entries.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as SE11 (Data Dictionary), SE78 (SAPscript Forms), and SE78 (Smart Forms) for managing text elements.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message.
  Text Management: Understanding how SAP handles text management, including the use of text objects and keys, can help prevent this error in the future.
  
  If the issue persists after following these steps, consider reaching out to your SAP support team or consulting with an SAP expert for further assistance.