How To Fix TP685 - File &1 has invalid format (&2 > &3)

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: TP - Transport Control

• Message number: 685

• Message text: File &1 has invalid format (&2 > &3)

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.

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message TP685 - File &1 has invalid format (&2 > &3) ?

  The SAP error message TP685 indicates that there is an issue with the format of a file that is being processed. The message typically appears in the context of transport management, where files are being imported or exported between different SAP systems.
  Cause:
  The error message TP685 "File &1 has invalid format (&2 > &3)" generally arises due to one of the following reasons:
  
  File Format Mismatch: The file being processed does not conform to the expected format. This could be due to corruption, incorrect file type, or an unsupported version.
  Version Compatibility: The version of the file being imported is not compatible with the version of the SAP system. For example, trying to import a transport file created in a newer version of SAP into an older version.
  Transport Directory Issues: There may be issues with the transport directory or the transport files themselves, such as missing files or incorrect file paths.
  File Encoding Issues: The file may have been saved with an incorrect encoding that the SAP system cannot read.
  
  Solution:
  To resolve the TP685 error, you can take the following steps:
  
  Check File Format: Ensure that the file you are trying to import is in the correct format. Verify that it is a valid transport file and not corrupted.
  Version Compatibility: Confirm that the transport file is compatible with the version of the SAP system you are working with. If necessary, create the transport file again in the correct version.
  Inspect Transport Directory: Check the transport directory for any missing or corrupted files. Ensure that all necessary files are present and accessible.
  File Encoding: If the file was edited or saved externally, check the encoding. Ensure it is saved in a format that SAP can read (typically ASCII or UTF-8).
  Recreate the Transport: If the file is corrupted or invalid, consider recreating the transport request and exporting it again.
  Consult SAP Notes: Look for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error or provide additional troubleshooting steps.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Transport Management System (TMS): Understanding how TMS works can help in managing transports effectively and avoiding such errors.
  SAP Notes: Regularly check SAP Notes for updates or patches that may address known issues related to transport files.
  SAP Community: Engaging with the SAP Community can provide insights from other users who may have encountered similar issues.
  
  If the problem persists after trying the above solutions, consider reaching out to SAP support for further assistance.