Abstract: The invention relates to the operation of a compacting machine. At least certain of the data relating to the operating parameters are stored in a memory; the length to be traversed L, the advance length la, the number of passes nP or round-trips to be executed before changing track, and the number of tracks N. The length traversed and the direction of operation are continuously detected, and signals are emitted to control an operation or preferably to inform the driver of the operation to be carried out. The lengths traversed during braking or change in track are taken into account each time in the determination of the length to be traversed. The signals can be given by arrows and fixed or blinking lights. Old or new compaction machines can be driven by the method using this device.