The innovative guide handle provides for very low hand-arm vibrations and optimizes the user-friendliness. An operator present system prevents the operator from being trapped between the unit and an object when working backward. Extensive comfort functions, such as low oil shutdown, self-adjusting V-belts, maintenance-free alternator. A large dimensioned diesel engine offers high power reserves and ensures for a high level of efficiency and long service life. Easy to read display of the relative compaction progress. Warning for overload and overcompaction. Brightness adjustment of the lights to the ambient light. Extremely robust and reliable.