How To Fix TN685 - Prerequisite type "&1" is unknown; SPAM/SAINT update is required...

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: TN - Support Package Manager (SPAM) Messages

• Message number: 685

• Message text: Prerequisite type "&1" is unknown; SPAM/SAINT update is required...

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 TN685 - Prerequisite type "&1" is unknown; SPAM/SAINT update is required... ?

  The SAP error message TN685 indicates that there is a prerequisite type that is not recognized by the system, and it suggests that an update using SPAM (SAP Patch Manager) or SAINT (SAP Add-On Installation Tool) is required. This error typically occurs during the installation or upgrade of SAP components or add-ons.
  Cause:
  
  Outdated SPAM/SAINT Version: The version of SPAM/SAINT you are using may not support the prerequisite types required by the software component or add-on you are trying to install.
  Missing or Incorrectly Configured Software Components: The software component you are trying to install may have dependencies that are not met due to missing or outdated components.
  Incorrect Package: The package you are trying to install may be incompatible with your current SAP system version.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Update SPAM/SAINT:
  
  Go to transaction code SPAM or SAINT in your SAP system.
  Check for updates and apply the latest version of SPAM/SAINT. This will ensure that your system recognizes the latest prerequisite types.
  After updating, restart the installation process for the component or add-on.
  
  
  
  Check Software Component Versions:
  
  Ensure that the software component you are trying to install is compatible with your current SAP system version.
  Review the SAP Notes related to the component for any specific prerequisites or dependencies.
  
  
  
  Review Installation Documentation:
  
  Consult the installation guide or release notes for the component you are trying to install. This documentation often contains important information about prerequisites and compatibility.
  
  
  
  Check for SAP Notes:
  
  Search the SAP Support Portal for any relevant SAP Notes that address the TN685 error. There may be specific fixes or recommendations provided by SAP.
  
  
  
  Contact SAP Support:
  
  If the issue persists after following the above steps, consider reaching out to SAP Support for further assistance. Provide them with details about your system version, the component you are trying to install, and the exact error message.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  SPAM/SAINT: These are tools used in SAP systems for applying support packages and installing add-ons. Keeping them updated is crucial for maintaining system compatibility and functionality.
  SAP Notes: These are documents provided by SAP that contain information about known issues, fixes, and recommendations. They can be searched in the SAP Support Portal.
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as SPAM, SAINT, SNOTE (for applying SAP Notes), and SE80 (for development work).
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the TN685 error and successfully install the required components or add-ons in your SAP system.