How To Fix XM271 - Could not generate PDF

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: XM - XMI interface and SMAPIS messages to XMI log

• Message number: 271

• Message text: Could not generate PDF

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 XM271 - Could not generate PDF ?

  The SAP error message XM271, which states "Could not generate PDF," typically occurs when there is an issue with the PDF generation process in SAP. This can happen in various contexts, such as when trying to print documents, generate reports, or export data to PDF format. Here are some common causes, potential solutions, and related information for this error:
  Causes:
  
  
  Missing or Incorrect Configuration: The SAP system may not be properly configured to generate PDFs. This could include missing settings in the SAPscript or Smart Forms.
  
  
  Printer Configuration Issues: If the output device (printer) is not correctly configured or is not set up to handle PDF output, this error may occur.
  
  
  Authorization Issues: The user may not have the necessary authorizations to generate PDF documents.
  
  
  Temporary System Issues: Sometimes, temporary issues with the SAP system or the underlying database can lead to this error.
  
  
  Software Bugs: There may be bugs in the version of SAP you are using that affect PDF generation.
  
  
  Missing PDF Renderer: The PDF renderer (such as Adobe Document Services) may not be installed or configured correctly.
  
  
  Solutions:
  
  
  Check Configuration:
  
  Ensure that the SAPscript or Smart Forms are correctly configured for PDF output.
  Verify that the output device is set up to support PDF generation.
  
  
  
  Review Printer Settings:
  
  Go to transaction SPAD (Spool Administration) and check the configuration of the output device.
  Ensure that the device type supports PDF output.
  
  
  
  Check Authorizations:
  
  Verify that the user has the necessary authorizations to generate PDF documents. This may involve checking roles and profiles assigned to the user.
  
  
  
  Restart Services:
  
  If the issue is temporary, restarting the relevant SAP services or the application server may resolve the problem.
  
  
  
  Check for Software Updates:
  
  Ensure that your SAP system is up to date with the latest patches and updates, as these may contain fixes for known issues.
  
  
  
  Consult SAP Notes:
  
  Search for relevant SAP Notes in the SAP Support Portal that may address this specific error message or provide guidance on PDF generation issues.
  
  
  
  Contact SAP Support:
  
  If the issue persists after trying the above solutions, consider reaching out to SAP Support for further assistance.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with transaction codes like SPAD (for printer configuration) and SMARTFORMS (for Smart Forms management).
  SAP Documentation: Review the official SAP documentation for PDF generation and output management for more detailed guidance.
  Community Forums: Check SAP Community forums or other user groups for similar issues and solutions shared by other users.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to diagnose and potentially resolve the XM271 error in your SAP system.