How To Fix TD421 - Parameter DEVICE=& is invalid

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

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

• Message number: 421

• Message text: Parameter DEVICE=& is invalid

What causes this issue?

An invalid value was entered for the parameter DEVICE.

System Response

The function was ignored.

How to fix this error?

Please specifiy a valid value for the parameter DEVICE, such as
<H>PRINTER</> for output to a printer, or <H>SCREEN</> for output to
the screen.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message TD421 - Parameter DEVICE=& is invalid ?

  The SAP error message TD421, which states "Parameter DEVICE=& is invalid," typically occurs when there is an issue with the device type or printer configuration in the SAP system. This error can arise in various scenarios, such as when trying to print a document or when configuring output devices.
  Cause:
  
  Invalid Device Name: The error indicates that the device name specified (represented by &) is not valid. This could be due to a typo, an incorrect device name, or the device not being defined in the system.
  Missing Device Configuration: The output device may not be configured correctly in the SAP system, or it may not exist in the system at all.
  Authorization Issues: The user may not have the necessary authorizations to access the specified device.
  Device Type Not Defined: The device type associated with the printer may not be defined or may be inactive.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Device Name: Verify the device name you are trying to use. Ensure that it is spelled correctly and matches the name defined in the SAP system.
  Review Output Device Configuration:
  
  Go to transaction SPAD (Spool Administration).
  Check the list of output devices and ensure that the device you are trying to use is listed and correctly configured.
  If the device is missing, you may need to create it or correct its configuration.
  
  
  Check Device Type: Ensure that the device type associated with the printer is valid and active. You can check this in the same SPAD transaction.
  User Authorizations: Ensure that the user has the necessary authorizations to access the output device. You may need to consult with your SAP security team to verify this.
  Test Printing: After making any changes, try to print a test document to see if the issue is resolved.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction SPAD: This is the main transaction for managing output devices in SAP. You can view, create, and modify printer configurations here.
  Device Types: Device types define how the output is formatted for different printers. Ensure that the correct device type is assigned to the output device.
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address specific issues related to printing or output devices. You can search for notes in the SAP Support Portal.
  
  If the problem persists after following these steps, it may be helpful to consult with your SAP Basis team or SAP support for further assistance.