Remote tacho download tips from Lisle Design
Pex Pison of Lisle Design
Tachograph data specialist Lisle Design has warned that opting for cheaper remote download tools as opposed to those from major brands may prove a false economy when the full life cycle costs of downloads are taken into account.
“If you’re a fleet manager, you will most likely understand the value of reliable remote tachograph data downloads,” said Pex Pison, general manager at Lisle Design.
“The key word here is ‘reliable’, and opting for a low-cost solution will almost certainly prove to be less than effective.
“According to DVSA data, in the period October to December 2024, tachograph and records offences accounted for almost 60 per cent of HGV-related prosecutions, with all but one of the prosecutions being successful.
“Of course, good, reliable data isn’t just about legal compliance; it also delivers measurable business benefits.”
Remote downloading data saves time, says Pex, enabling drivers to focus on their core responsibilities.
“You get the data you need, when you need it, and if you’re considering using a bureau to manage and report on your fleet utilisation and compliance, you’re all set. But that’s not all.
“Most tachograph remote download tools also offer the potential to provide vehicle location and driver activity insights, eliminating the need for a separate system. The cost savings of this alone make investing in a reliable remote download solution the smart choice.”
Citing advantages of sourcing solutions from industry leaders such as Lisle Design and Tachosys, Pex said: “First, the leading brands have reliability baked in, by making dedicated equipment to work solely for the haulage industry. Cheaper, generic kit can be aimed at multiple, non-haulage, users – a jack of all trades, but a master of none.
“For example, when using a leading brand remote downloading unit, you can expect it to notice if a vehicle’s internet connection is down. The device will then wait for connection to be restored, then download and send data. There is no need for the driver to do anything.
“With generic devices the risk is that the device will repeatedly try to send data and ultimately creating an error.”
When it comes to installation, the higher-end solutions also win hands down, Pex contends.
“For example, Lisle Design’s Digidown RDL equipment is a simple, plug-and-play DIY installation that requires no specialists or additional costs.
“This means even small operators working on tight budgets can deploy dependable remote tachograph data download equipment without breaking the bank.
“However, when you buy equipment from tachograph remote downloading specialists, you get way more than a dependable, set-it-and-forget-it solution. You get access to their problem-solving expertise.
“The industry knowledge you benefit from when you purchase your equipment from a specialist has the potential to save you significant amounts of money. No waiting for months to solve a tricky issue, and that’s irrespective of the size of your organisation.
“You will also benefit from using equipment that seamlessly keeps pace with changing tachograph standards, ensuring no downtime. Additionally, if you believe the equipment would benefit from a feature it currently lacks, the specialist will work with you to implement it.”
