How To Fix W3_API401 - Cannot use files of this type as MIME objects

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: W3_API - WAB: API Messages

• Message number: 401

• Message text: Cannot use files of this type as MIME objects

What causes this issue?

The file type you have entered cannot be used as a MIME object - DLL
and OCX files are not admissable file types.

System Response

The system cannot create the MIME object.

How to fix this error?

The system issues an error message and will not allow you to continue with this transaction until the error is resolved.

Procedure for System Administrators

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message W3_API401 - Cannot use files of this type as MIME objects ?

  SAP Error Message:
  
  W3_API401 Cannot use files of this type as MIME objects
  
  Cause
  This error occurs when you try to send or process a file in SAP as a MIME object, but the file type (based on its extension or content type) is not supported or allowed for MIME processing in the current context. Essentially, the SAP system refuses to treat the file as a MIME object because it does not recognize or permit the file type for MIME handling.
  Common scenarios include:
  
  Attempting to attach or send files with unsupported or unregistered MIME types in SAPscript, Smart Forms, or SAP Office.
  The MIME repository or MIME type configuration in SAP does not include the file type you are trying to use.
  The file extension is missing or incorrect, causing SAP to fail in determining the MIME type.
  
  
  Solution
  
  
  Check and Register MIME Types:
  
  Use transaction SICF or SO10 to check MIME type configurations.
  Use transaction SO10 or SO23 to manage MIME objects.
  If the file type is missing, register the MIME type in SAP:
  
  Go to transaction SO10 or SO23 (depending on SAP version).
  Add the missing MIME type with the correct file extension and content type (e.g., application/pdf for .pdf files).
  
  
  
  
  
  Verify File Extension:
  
  Ensure the file has the correct extension.
  SAP determines MIME type based on the file extension; missing or wrong extensions cause this error.
  
  
  
  Use Supported File Types:
  
  Confirm that the file type you want to use is supported by the SAP application or interface you are working with.
  For example, Smart Forms and SAPscript support certain MIME types like PDF, TXT, HTML, etc.
  
  
  
  Check Program or Interface Logic:
  
  If you are developing or customizing ABAP code that handles MIME objects, verify that the code correctly sets the MIME type and file extension.
  Use function modules like SO_OBJECT_INSERT or classes like CL_BCS properly with correct MIME type parameters.
  
  
  
  SAP Notes and Patches:
  
  Check SAP Notes for any known issues related to MIME handling in your SAP version.
  Apply relevant patches or support packages if the problem is due to a bug.
  
  
  
  
  Related Information
  
  MIME (Multipurpose Internet Mail Extensions): A standard that indicates the nature and format of a document, file, or assortment of bytes.
  SAP MIME Repository: Stores MIME objects like images, logos, and other files used in SAP applications.
  Transactions:
  
  SICF – Internet Communication Framework, for service and MIME type configuration.
  SO10 / SO23 – SAP Office text and MIME object management.
  
  
  Function Modules / Classes:
  
  SO_OBJECT_INSERT – Insert objects into SAP Office.
  CL_BCS – Business Communication Services class for email and MIME handling.
  
  
  Common MIME Types in SAP:
  
  application/pdf for PDF files
  text/plain for TXT files
  image/jpeg for JPEG images
  text/html for HTML files
  
  
  
  
  Summary
  The error W3_API401 Cannot use files of this type as MIME objects means SAP does not recognize or allow the file type as a MIME object. To fix it, ensure the file has the correct extension, register the MIME type in SAP if missing, and verify that the file type is supported in your scenario. Check your program logic and SAP configuration related to MIME handling.
  
  If you provide more context (e.g., which transaction or program triggers this error), I can give more specific guidance.