The classic Profit Center Accounting (EC-PCA) simulation tool, used within the SAP S/4HANA Central Finance initial load process, is designed to test the replication setup before committing to an actual data load. Its primary functions are to validate the data against the target system's configuration. The tool simulates the posting process by running source system data through the defined mapping rules (e.g., for profit centers) and the posting logic (e.g., derivations, validations) of the Central Finance system. This allows for the proactive identification and correction of errors, such as missing master data or incorrect mapping, without creating any actual postings in the general ledger.

C. Posts actual data in the target system: A simulation run, by definition, does not create persistent data or actual financial documents. Its purpose is to test the process, while an update run posts the data.

D. Creates mapping entries: The tool identifies and reports missing or incorrect mapping entries as errors. However, it does not create them; mapping maintenance is a separate configuration activity performed by an administrator.

1. SAP Help Portal

SAP S/4HANA 2023

"Initial Load for EC-PCA Postings": The documentation for the initial load report FINSCFINPCAINITIALLOAD specifies the use of a "Test Run" checkbox. It states

"If you select the Test Run checkbox

the system only simulates the posting of EC-PCA documents. The system checks whether the required master data exists and whether the mapping is maintained correctly. It does not post any data." This directly supports that the tool checks mappings (A) and simulates the posting

which includes its logic (B)

without posting actual data (making C incorrect).

2. SAP Help Portal

SAP S/4HANA 2023

"Running the Initial Load for CO Secondary Postings": While this refers to CO postings

the principle is identical for all Central Finance initial loads

including EC-PCA. The documentation explains that a test run "simulates the replication of postings" and is used to "check for errors in your mapping and customizing settings before you start the initial load." This confirms the tool's role in checking both mapping (A) and posting logic derived from customizing (B). It also reinforces that the tool only identifies issues

it does not create configuration like mapping entries (making D incorrect).