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How To Fix WD488 - Source language and target language must not be identical


SAP Error Message - Details

  • Message type: E = Error

  • Message class: WD - Workflow definition

  • Message number: 488

  • Message text: Source language and target language must not be identical

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  • Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

  • What is the cause and solution for SAP error message WD488 - Source language and target language must not be identical ?

    Certainly! Here's a detailed explanation regarding the SAP error message WD488: Source language and target language must not be identical:


    Error Message

    WD488: Source language and target language must not be identical


    Cause

    This error occurs in SAP Web Dynpro applications when you attempt to perform a translation or language conversion operation where the source language and the target language are the same. The system expects these two languages to be different because translating from a language into the same language is logically incorrect and unnecessary.

    Typical scenarios where this error might appear include:

    • When using translation tools or functions within Web Dynpro applications.
    • When maintaining or generating language-dependent texts or UI elements.
    • When configuring language settings for content translation or language switching.

    Explanation

    • The system requires a source language (the original language of the text) and a target language (the language into which the text should be translated).
    • If both languages are identical, the system cannot proceed because no translation is needed.
    • This is a validation check to prevent redundant or erroneous translation operations.

    Solution

    To resolve this error:

    1. Check the language settings in your Web Dynpro application or translation tool.
    2. Ensure that the source language and target language are different.
      • For example, if the source language is EN (English), the target language should be something else like DE (German), FR (French), etc.
    3. If you are manually entering these languages, verify that you have not mistakenly entered the same language code twice.
    4. If the languages are dynamically determined by the program, debug or check the logic to ensure that the source and target languages are set correctly and differently.
    5. If this error occurs during a translation or export/import process, review the language parameters or settings in the relevant transaction or tool.

    Related Information

    • Transaction / Tools: This error is commonly encountered in Web Dynpro applications, translation tools, or language maintenance transactions.
    • SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes related to language translation or Web Dynpro if the problem persists.
    • Language Codes: SAP uses standard ISO language codes (e.g., EN, DE, FR). Make sure these codes are correctly used.
    • Web Dynpro Context: In Web Dynpro, language-dependent attributes or UI elements may require proper language settings to function correctly.
    • Debugging: Use debugging tools to check the values of source and target language variables if the error is raised programmatically.

    Summary

    Aspect Description
    Error WD488: Source language and target language must not be identical
    Cause Source and target language are the same in a translation operation
    Solution Ensure source and target languages are different
    Context Web Dynpro applications, translation tools, language maintenance
    Additional Verify language codes and program logic for language assignment

    If you provide more context (e.g., transaction, program, or scenario), I can help with more specific guidance.

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