Stop googling SAP errors. Use our Free Essentials plan instead - no credit card needed. Start Now

Close

How To Fix WP502 - Syntax error in IDoc &: segment & not allowed


SAP Error Message - Details

  • Message type: E = Error

  • Message class: WP - Messages from POS interface

  • Message number: 502

  • Message text: Syntax error in IDoc &: segment & not allowed

  • Show details Hide details


  • 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 WP502 - Syntax error in IDoc &: segment & not allowed ?

    Certainly! Here's a detailed explanation for the SAP error message:


    SAP Error Message:

    WP502 Syntax error in IDoc &: segment & not allowed


    Cause:

    This error occurs during IDoc processing when the IDoc contains a segment that is not allowed or not expected at the current position according to the IDoc type and message type definition.

    • The segment in question is either:
      • Not defined in the IDoc structure for the given message type.
      • Placed in an incorrect sequence or hierarchy.
      • The IDoc is corrupted or incorrectly generated.
    • This can happen if the sending system or middleware sends an IDoc with an invalid segment or if the IDoc type or message type configuration in SAP is inconsistent with the actual IDoc data.

    Explanation:

    • IDocs have a strict hierarchical structure defined by the IDoc type (basic type) and message type.
    • Each segment is allowed only in certain positions.
    • If a segment appears where it is not allowed, the syntax check during inbound processing fails with this error.

    Solution:

    1. Check the IDoc structure:

      • Verify the IDoc basic type and message type.
      • Use transaction WE30 to display the IDoc type and check the segment hierarchy.
      • Confirm that the segment mentioned in the error is part of the IDoc type and allowed at the position it appears.
    2. Check the inbound processing:

      • Use transaction WE19 to test IDoc inbound processing.
      • Try to simulate the IDoc processing with the problematic IDoc data.
    3. Check the sending system or middleware:

      • Ensure that the system generating the IDoc is sending the correct segments.
      • If middleware is involved (e.g., PI/PO, CPI), check the mapping and transformation logic.
    4. Check for custom segments or extensions:

      • If custom segments are used, ensure they are properly defined and included in the IDoc type extension.
      • Use transaction WE31 to check segment definitions.
      • Use transaction WE30 to check extensions.
    5. Re-generate or correct the IDoc:

      • If the IDoc is corrupted, regenerate it or correct the data.
    6. Check SAP Notes:

      • Search for SAP Notes related to WP502 or IDoc syntax errors for your specific SAP version.

    Related Transactions and Tools:

    • WE02 / WE05 – Display IDocs and analyze errors.
    • WE19 – Test tool for IDoc inbound processing.
    • WE30 – IDoc type development and display.
    • WE31 – Segment definition.
    • WE20 – Partner profiles (check message type and IDoc type assignments).
    • BD87 – Reprocess IDocs.

    Summary:

    • Cause: Segment not allowed at the position in the IDoc structure.
    • Solution: Verify IDoc type and segment hierarchy, correct the IDoc data or configuration, check sending system and middleware, and test with WE19.

    If you provide the exact segment name and IDoc type/message type, I can help you with more specific guidance.

    • Do you have any question about this error?


      Upgrade now to chat with this error.


Instant HelpGet instant SAP help. Sign up for our Free Essentials Plan.


Related SAP Error Messages

Click the links below to see the following related messages:
  • WP501 Worklist & created
    Self-Explanatory Message Since SAP believes that this specific error message is 'self-explanatory,' no more information has been given.The majority of...

  • WP500 ID segment (&) missing
    Self-Explanatory Message Since SAP believes that this specific error message is 'self-explanatory,' no more information has been given.The majority of...

  • WP503 Faulty segment in IDoc &: qualifier & not allowed
    Self-Explanatory Message Since SAP believes that this specific error message is 'self-explanatory,' no more information has been given.The majority of...

  • WP504 EDI: IDOC no. & is invalid
    Self-Explanatory Message Since SAP believes that this specific error message is 'self-explanatory,' no more information has been given.The majority of...

Click on this link to search all SAP messages.


Rating
ERPlingo simplifies finding the accurate answers to SAP message errors. I now use every week. A must have tool for anyone working with SAP! Highly recommended!
Rate 1
Kent Bettisworth
Executive SAP Consultant