Dot Distribution

EasyTac downloader FAQ

Who is Easytac downloader suitable for?
EasyTac downloader is suitable for all individuals and companies who wish to download, view and store their digital tachograph data. EasyTac downloader can be used by anyone with an individual vehicle or companies with 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 Easytac downloader include everything I need to download driver activity information and store this data on my PC?
Yes, so long as you buy a package that comes complete with a smartcard reader. There are three standard packages - software only, software + smartcard reader and software + smartcard reader + VU download device. If you buy the software only solution you will need a compatible smart card reader. The other packages include everything to download data from drivers' cards, while the VU download device adds the ability to download data from the vehicle unit.

Are there any other extras such as further software or cables required?
You need a compatible card reader for the 'software only' solution - the other packages contain all the software and hardware required for downloading. For ALL solutions you need to be running Windows 2000 or XP and have a free USB port. 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 Easytac downloader 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. EasyTac downloader also stores the data files on your PC, therefore complying to the new government requirement for digital tachographs.

Is the software hard to install?
EasyTac downloader is very easy to install simply by inserting the CD and following on the on-screen instructions. You also need to install the smartcard reader drivers by running the CM3121Setup file on the CD. Instructions for this can be found on the leaflet inside the EasyTac downloader 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 EasyTac downloader running and click the 'Download Card' button. This downloads the data to be displayed on screen and stored in a file according to the regulations.

Can I leave EasyTac downloader running in the background while using my PC for something else and still collect the drivers' data?
Yes, the smartcard reader will read and store the data in the background letting you get on with something else on your PC. There is an automatic read mode which means there is no intervention required from the PC user. The drivers can just insert their card, which is automatically read, and then remove it when the light stops flashing.

I feel more comfortable looking at the old analogue tachograph charts. Can the software reproduce these?
Yes, there are different reports that can be printed, including one that includes colour-coded graphical time-lines for each day's activity stored on the card.

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

Can several different driver's cards use one copy of Easytac downloader?
Yes, EasyTac downloader 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 Easytac downloader?
Yes, Easytac downloader 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 (e.g. the Digidown or Siemens devices.)

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 will need EasyTac downloader, or similar software, to talk to the drivers card, download and display your data, and save it in the VOSA required format.