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Downloader Solo FAQ

Who is Downloader Solo suitable for?
Downloader Solo is suitable for all individuals and companies who wish to download, view and store their digital tachograph data. Downloader Solo can be used by anyone with individual vehicles up to larger fleets who needs to comply with government requirements for digital tachographs. In the UK, digital tachographs are regulated by VOSA (www.digitaltachograph.gov.uk).

Does Downloader Solo include everything I need to download driver activity information and store this information on my PC?
Yes, so long as you buy the package that comes complete with a smartcard reader. This will download the activity information from your driver’s card and store it on your PC.

Are there any other extras such as further software or cables required?
No, so long as you buy the package that comes complete with a smartcard reader you have everything you need. Additional smartcard readers, card holders and smartcard reader cleaners are available from our online store if required.

Are there any subscription fees or additional costs?
No, there is only the one time cost of the Downloader Solo package.

Do I have to send the data off to be analysed?
No, there is no need to send data for analysis. At the time of downloading, you should check or print the reports showing the time spent on different activities, to ensure you are meeting working hours obligations. And by storing the data files you are complying with the new government requirements for digital tachographs.

Is the software hard to install?
Downloader Solo is very easy to install simply by inserting the CD and following on the screen instructions. Smartcard readers should be installed before Downloader Solo by running the CM3121Setup file on the CD. Instructions for this can be found on the leaflet inside the Downloader Solo box.

How do you download data from a driver’s card?
To download data from a driver’s card you simply insert the card into the smartcard reader with Downloader Solo running. Downloader Solo automatically detects this and downloads the data to be displayed on screen and stored in a file according to the regulations.

Does Downloader Solo comply with UK and European standards?
Yes, Downloader Solo complies with all legal requirements for the downloading of tachograph data. Storage requirements are also met by Downloader Solo, which stores information automatically in tamper-proof files.

Can several different driver’s cards use one copy of Downloader Solo?
Yes, once Downloader Solo is installed it is recommended to leave the program running as a background task on your PC. Drivers simply come in and insert their driver’s cards - once the information is downloaded and stored they can remove their driver’s card and another employee can then do the same. Downloader Solo can cope with an unlimited number of driver’s cards, so long as your PC has room to store the information.

Can I use my VU downloader device with Downloader Solo?
Yes, Downloader Solo can also download information from your VU downloader device, so long as you are using one that appears to the PC like a memory stick (eg from Siemens.)

Can I just buy a smartcard reader and download my driver’s card information myself, or do I need the software too?
If you only have a smartcard reader then you won’t be able to get any information off a driver’s card without the correct software. You need Downloader Solo, or similar software, to download and display your data.