macOS Requirements
System requirements for running SoftSDC on macOS
Quick Requirements Summary
- OS: macOS 10.14 Mojave or newer
- RAM: 4 GB minimum
- Storage: 200 MB available
- Processor: Intel or Apple Silicon (M1/M2/M3)
- Additional: USB port, Internet connection
Understanding macOS Requirements
SoftSDC on macOS delivers a native experience that seamlessly integrates with the Apple ecosystem while maintaining full compatibility with enterprise tax systems. The application leverages macOS's built-in smart card framework, providing reliable and secure certificate operations without requiring additional drivers for most card readers.
Minimum Requirements
Operating System
- macOS 10.14 Mojave or newer
- Native support for both Intel and Apple Silicon processors
Hardware
- Processor: Intel-based Mac or Apple Silicon (M1, M2, M3)
- Memory: 4 GB RAM minimum
- Storage: 200 MB for application bundle and supporting files
- Ports: USB port (USB-A, USB-C, or Thunderbolt)
- Network: Internet connection required
Apple Silicon Support
SoftSDC runs natively on Apple Silicon Macs, automatically optimizing performance for your specific hardware architecture.
Recommended Configuration
For best experience, especially in high-volume environments:
- OS: macOS 12 Monterey or newer
- Memory: 8 GB or more RAM
- Storage: 1 GB free space for smooth operation
- Performance: Enhanced on Apple Silicon processors
Installation and Security
Gatekeeper Security
When first installing SoftSDC:
- macOS will display a security warning (app distributed outside Mac App Store)
- Open System Preferences → Security & Privacy
- Click "Open Anyway" to approve the application
- This is a one-time requirement
First Launch Security
You must approve the application in System Preferences before first use. This ensures you're intentionally running the software.
Required Permissions
SoftSDC will request:
- USB Device Access - For smart card reader communication
- Network Access - For license validation and synchronization
- Background Activity - For maintaining API services
Grant these permissions when prompted to ensure full functionality.
Smart Card Support
macOS includes built-in smart card drivers that work with most readers:
- No additional drivers needed for common readers
- Automatic detection when connected
- Native integration with macOS security framework
Background Services
On macOS, SoftSDC:
- Runs as a launch daemon for automatic startup
- Maintains services even when app is closed
- Provides continuous API availability
- Integrates with macOS power management
Performance Optimization
Best Practices
- Keep macOS updated for latest security and performance improvements
- Use USB 3.0 or Thunderbolt connections when possible
- Allow full disk access if prompted for better performance
- Disable App Nap for SoftSDC if experiencing delays
Energy Management
- SoftSDC respects macOS energy saving features
- Prevents sleep during active invoice processing
- Optimizes battery usage on MacBooks
For MacBook users: Connect to power during extended operation sessions to prevent power-saving interruptions.
Troubleshooting
Common Issues
Security warning on first launch:
- Open System Preferences → Security & Privacy
- Look for message about SoftSDC being blocked
- Click "Open Anyway"
- Enter admin password when prompted
Smart card reader not detected:
- Check System Information → USB
- Verify reader appears in the list
- Try different USB ports or adapters
- Restart if necessary
Permission issues:
- Open System Preferences → Security & Privacy → Privacy
- Check relevant categories (USB, Files and Folders)
- Ensure SoftSDC has necessary permissions
- Restart application after granting permissions
Service not starting:
- Open Terminal
- Check service status:
launchctl list | grep softsdc - Manually start if needed:
launchctl start com.softsdc.service - Check Console app for error messages