TDSi - Experts & Thought Leaders

Integrated access control and security manufacturer TDSi by Hirsch has released GARDiS version 3.3, a major update for its powerful access control software designed to make access control and integrated security management easier to use, easier to administer and more intuitive for security teams. Key additions include Ajax Cloud intruder integration, basic intruder panel connection on the GARDiS controller, simplified credential types, and enhancements to security controls and data governance. Delivering practical improvements Tina Pemberton, Director SMB Software at TDSi by Hirsch commented, “GARDiS 3.3 is an important milestone for our customers. These updates make the platform faster, simpler and even more secure, while opening the door to powerful new integrations such as Ajax intruder management. Our focus is always on delivering practical improvements that make everyday security management easier, and this latest release reflects that commitment.” GARDiS 3.3 brings intruder management more closely into the operator’s existing workflow. Through integration with Ajax Intruder Cloud, hubs, devices and groups can be discovered and viewed within GARDiS, allowing authorised users to see status changes as they happen and to arm, disarm or manage bypass settings without moving between separate systems. Intruder panels, zones and groups can also be used within Cause & Effect rules, helping routine responses happen consistently and reducing the need for manual intervention. Redesigned credential model For sites where a direct panel integration is not available, the GARDiS controller can now provide basic intruder functionality through its own outputs. This gives installers and end users a straightforward option for simpler applications, while retaining the familiar GARDiS environment. One of the most visible usability improvements is a redesigned credential model. A single universal “Card or Fob” type now works across virtually all reader and card technologies, removing the need for administrators to select and match credentials to specific decode types. Existing credentials are migrated automatically during upgrade and can be verified before changes are applied, helping teams move to the new model with confidence. Making credential management Biometric credentials and IP lock whitelisting are also incorporated into the unified approach. By making credential management more consistent, GARDiS 3.3 reduces training requirements, lowers the risk of configuration errors and makes common administrative tasks quicker to complete. The release gives organisations more precise control over what users can see and do. Configurable password rules, banned-word lists and automatic account lockout support stronger login security without complicating administration. New event dashboard permissions govern access to live and archived events, while organisation-based filtering helps ensure users only see information relating to the people they are authorised to manage. Protecting confidential information Sensitive reporting is easier to handle too. Saved reports can be kept private to their creator or shared only with designated users, giving teams a practical way to protect confidential information while preserving the flexibility of the reporting environment. A series of further improvements makes the interface and supporting workflows feel more consistent. Event management is more flexible, with controller-level event disabling and quicker select-all or unselect-all controls for alarms and sounds. Messaging and email validation are clearer, Active Directory monitoring handles organisational changes more reliably, and user identification and access-level handling have been refined. Combining dependable protection The release also improves performance on larger systems through faster bulk database updates and message-queue handling. People and credential exports now include organisation and department information, while simplified Chinese is available as a selectable interface language, extending the platform’s usability for international teams. Compatibility enhancements include the latest STid V3 mobile credential API, native support for 32-bit Wiegand readers and credentials, and the ability to configure OSDP readers as In/Out readers. DigiTouch readers are now free to license, making it easier for customers to use the technology across suitable projects. The platform has also moved to .NET 10 to support a smoother installation and upgrade experience. GARDiS 3.3 continues TDSi by Hirsch’s long-standing approach to security technology: combining dependable protection with tools that are straightforward to deploy and manage. As TDSi adopts the Hirsch name, customers will continue to benefit from the same specialist knowledge, responsive support and proven products, strengthened by the wider capabilities of the Hirsch Group.

Hirsch UK and TDSi by Hirsch announced that they are exhibiting at The Security Event 2026, taking place at the NEC Birmingham from 28th–30th April. Exhibiting on Stand 5/G60, Hirsch will showcase its latest innovations in high-security perimeter protection, enterprise-grade access control, and unified video and security management, with TDSi by Hirsch also present, demonstrating its powerful SMB-focused solutions. Delivering a layered security approach This year’s presence will centre on Hirsch’s ability to deliver a truly unified and layered security approach, combining award-winning, NPSA-accredited perimeter solutions with advanced access control and video intelligence. Visitors will be able to experience live demonstrations of HatchSecure, Maxiris and TriSecure, all designed to protect critical infrastructure and high-security environments with intelligent, resilient perimeter defence. Velocity Solutions At the core of the stand will be Hirsch’s Velocity Solutions, with Velocity Access Control providing enterprise-scale security management, alongside Velocity Vision, delivering fully integrated video capability. These solutions are brought together through Velocity Central, enabling organisations to manage access, video, intrusion and perimeter security from a single, unified platform. Showcasing innovations Alongside these high-security and enterprise solutions, TDSi by Hirsch will showcase the latest innovations in its GARDiS Integrated Access Control platform, designed specifically for SMB and mid-market applications. Visitors will be able to explore how GARDiS delivers powerful yet intuitive access management, and see first-hand the new GARDiS Mobile App, offering greater flexibility, convenience and control for users on the move. The joint presence of Hirsch UK and TDSi by Hirsch highlights the strength of a combined portfolio that scales from SMB environments through to the most demanding critical infrastructure applications, all underpinned by a unified approach to security. Security offering Richard Huison, Managing Director of Hirsch UK, commented: “The Security Event is a key opportunity for us to demonstrate how Hirsch and TDSi by Hirsch together deliver a complete, scalable security offering. From NPSA-accredited perimeter protection through to enterprise access control with Velocity and flexible GARDiS solutions for SMB, we’re helping organisations take a more unified and intelligent approach to security. We’re also excited to showcase the latest developments, including the new GARDiS Mobile App and the continued evolution of Velocity Central.” Visitors to Stand 5/G60 will have the opportunity to see these solutions in action, speak with product experts, and explore how integrated security can enhance resilience, simplify operations and future-proof their infrastructure.

Integrated access control and security manufacturer TDSi by Hirsch announces the release of GARDiS Pro v3.2, the latest evolution of its powerful access control software platform. The new version introduces a series of enhancements designed to strengthen system security, improve wireless locking integration, and simplify installation and commissioning for partners and end users. GARDiS Pro v3.2 reflects TDSi by Hirsch’s ongoing commitment to delivering a future-ready access control ecosystem that evolves in line with customer needs and emerging technologies. The latest version introduces a comprehensive set of new features and enhancements designed to strengthen security, improve connectivity and further enhance overall system performance. Providing greater convenience One of the most notable additions is full integration with Uhlmann & Zacher (U&Z) wireless locking. This new capability enables seamless management of compatible wireless locks directly within the GARDiS interface, offering improved configuration, monitoring, and control. This supports a smoother wireless locking experience, providing greater convenience while maintaining centralised system oversight. Security has also been further reinforced through the introduction of AES encryption between GARDiS Pro and GARDiS controllers. This enhancement ensures that all communication across the network is protected against unauthorised access or interception, offering greater assurance for organisations operating in sensitive or regulated environments. Fast and reliable communication channel GARDiS Pro v3.2 also introduces Endpoint Alerts, enabling real time notifications to be sent directly to a designated device such as a mobile phone. This improves responsiveness to critical events and ensures that important system activity is never missed. Alerts are configured through the GARDiS App and distributed via Google Firebase, providing a fast and reliable communication channel. To support improved on site awareness, the software now includes an audible alarm option, allowing users to trigger a sound alert when required. This provides an immediate indication of alarm events and supports faster incident response. Reducing configuration time Alongside these feature upgrades, TDSi has introduced a series of licensing and commissioning enhancements that streamline setup, reduce configuration time, and improve overall usability. Together, these refinements make deployment faster and more efficient for installers and administrators, ensuring projects move forward with greater confidence. Tina Pemberton, Director SMB Software, commented on the significance of the new release: “GARDiS Pro v3.2 represents another important step forward in our mission to deliver secure, flexible, and intuitive access control solutions. Our customers want systems that are not only robust and compliant, but also easy to deploy and manage. This update strengthens every part of the platform - from encrypted communications to wireless locking integration - while ensuring installers can work more efficiently and end users benefit from a smoother, more responsive experience.” GARDiS Pro v3.2 is available now via the TDSi Product Registration portal. Partners and customers are encouraged to upgrade to take advantage of the latest features and performance improvements.

Installing physical security systems requires integrating diverse technologies (e.g., cameras, access control, alarms) that often use different protocols and must be adapted to a building's unique physical layout and legacy infrastructure.  Specialised technical expertise is required for seamless networking and proper configuration. Hopefully, no important factors are overlooked in the installation process. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: What is the most overlooked factor when installing physical security systems?

The healthcare industry faces unique and significant security challenges. Healthcare security professionals must balance an open, welcoming environment for patients and visitors with the need to protect valuable assets and personnel in a high-stress, 24/7 setting. These requirements direct the physical security technologies deployed in medical facilities. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: What are the unique aspects of the healthcare market, and how should the physical security industry adapt?

A system's lifecycle is the journey it takes from planning and design through to decommissioning. Considering the entire lifecycle of a system can encourage integrators and end users to embrace higher-quality technologies with an eye toward maximising their value over time rather than focusing on lower-priced equipment. For additional insights, we asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: How does consideration of system lifecycles impact the choice of physical security technologies?