TDSi

What TDSi does

TDSi (Time and Data Systems International) is a Poole, UK-based designer and manufacturer of integrated access control systems, founded in 1982 and operating as a subsidiary of France-headquartered Vitaprotech Group since 2024. Its product portfolio centres on the proprietary GARDiS platform - comprising the GARDiS Web Embedded Controller (1-44 doors, up to 5,000 credentials), the GARDiS Network Controller (up to 50,000 credentials), GARDiS PRO and EXpress browser-based management software, and a reader range covering proximity, MIFARE/DESfire, dual-technology, long-range RF, and Bluetooth Low Energy (with five identification modes and smartphone credentials). Legacy EXpert, EXcel, MICROgarde, and SOLOgarde controllers plus EXgarde software remain in the catalogue, with EXgarde classified end-of-life from May 2024 and supported until May 2027 via a migration programme to GARDiS.

The business monetises across hardware sales (controllers, readers, cards/fobs with 3-5 year warranties), one-time and tiered software licences (GARDiS EXpress/PRO), recurring Base and Bespoke Software Support Agreements, certified installer training delivered at Poole HQ, Coventry, and on-site, and EXgarde-to-GARDiS migration services. Go-to-market is overwhelmingly indirect: a two-tier channel of authorised distributors (e.g., ADI Global, Anixter, Oprema, Norbain in the UK; ITESA, SODA, Ditec in France; SIEL in Romania; Vimo in Italy; Databac in Spain; AMED in the Middle East; ASVS in Africa; VASTIQ and Comvision in Asia/Australia) layered with a Gateway Training-certified installer network (Authorised, Gold, Platinum tiers), supplemented by direct engagement at The Security Event (NEC Birmingham), ISC West (Las Vegas), and Intersec Dubai. End-customers are diversified across education, healthcare, government, commercial, industrial, transportation, and sports & leisure verticals, with named logos including Shanghai Metro, Bristol International Airport, LV= Liverpool Victoria, Aston Villa FC, and multiple UK universities and hospitals.

The company holds ISO9001:2015 (BSI), Cyber Essentials Plus, GDPR, WEEE, and RoHS2 compliance, and integrates with a broad third-party ecosystem covering VMS (Milestone, Pelco, Hanwha, Hikvision, Dahua, Panasonic), biometrics (Suprema, IDEMIA), intruder alarms (Texecom, Vanderbilt), wireless locks (Assa Abloy Aperio, SimonsVoss, U&Z), identity (Microsoft Active Directory), and elevator control (Otis, Fujitec). Headcount is reported at 11-50 employees, and the business is privately held with no disclosed funding history.

Name

TDSi

Legal name

Time and Data Systems International

Website

https://tdsi.co.uk

Company type

Private

Founded year

1982

Operating status

Operating

Headcount range

11–50 employees

Short description

TDSi designs and manufactures integrated access control hardware (controllers, readers, credentials) and browser-based management software (GARDiS), sold through distributors and certified installers across the UK, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia-Pacific to education, healthcare, government, commercial, transportation, and industrial end-customers.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Product category

Access Control Systems

NAICS

Automatic Environmental Control Manufacturing for Residential, Commercial, and Appliance Use (334512)

SIC

Auto Controls For Regulating Residential & Comml Environments (3822), Measuring & Controlling Devices, Nec (3829)

akta.pro primary industry

Access Control Systems (Residential Controllers, Readers & Credentials) (HSAHAEAC)

akta.pro secondary industries

Access Control & Smart Locks (Managed/Monitored) (HSAHAAAG), Network & Infrastructure for Security Systems (Cabling, PoE, Wireless, Edge Compute) (BPAKAGAI)

Keywords

• Access control systems
• Security management software
• Door controllers
• Biometric readers
• Integrated security solutions

Headquarters

HQ city

Poole

HQ country

United Kingdom

HQ region

Europe

Offices3 records

Markets served

GTM type

B2B

Offering type

Hardware or Manufacturing

Cost components

Supply Chain, Technology or R&D, Personnel, Marketing or Sales, Operations

Revenue model

1. Hardware Sales: TDSi generates revenue primarily through the sale of access control hardware including controllers, readers, and cards/fobs. Hardware ranges from entry-level standalone controllers to enterprise-scale networked units. Controllers carry 3-year warranties (5 years for GARDiS), readers carry 3-year warranties.
2. Software Licenses: GARDiS software is sold as a licensed platform. GARDiS EXpress and GARDiS PRO variants are available with different door/user capacity tiers. EXgarde software is end-of-life (since May 2024) with migration to GARDiS. Software licensing is tied to serial numbers and machine codes via the Product Registration system.
3. Software Support Agreements: TDSi offers a Base Software Support Agreement providing up to 2 hours of technical support per month for systems with 50 doors or fewer. Support is available Monday to Friday, 08:30-17:00 GMT, valid for 12 months. Bespoke support agreements are available for larger systems with third-party integrations, including additional support hours, software commissioning, health checks, upgrades, and extended hardware warranty.
4. Training Services: TDSi provides installer training courses delivered at Poole HQ, Coventry, and on-site at customer premises. Training covers GARDiS and EXgarde platforms and is part of the Gateway Training programme for Authorised, Gold, and Platinum installers.
5. Migration Services: EXgarde to GARDiS software migration services are provided, managed by TDSi through a gated workflow process. Includes database analysis, preparation, and implementation support.

Go-to-market motion1 record

Distribution channels18 records

Marketing channels7 records

Core offering

TDSi designs, develops, and manufactures integrated access control systems, including IP-based hardware controllers, multi-technology card readers, Bluetooth Low Energy smartphone credential readers, and the GARDiS browser-based access control management software platform. The portfolio spans standalone door controllers to enterprise-scale networked systems with REST API integration to building management systems including CCTV, ANPR, intruder/fire alarms, lift control and energy management.

Product overview

TDSi (Time and Data Systems International) provides integrated access control solutions spanning hardware controllers, readers, and software management platforms. The product portfolio centers on the GARDiS platform (GARDiS Web Embedded Controller, GARDiS Network Controller, GARDiS PRO/EXpress Software) as the flagship offering, supplemented by the legacy EXcel/EXpert/MICROgarde controller series and EXgarde software (End of Life from May 2024). Reader technologies include GARDiS Readers (proximity, MIFARE, DESfire), GARDiS Bluetooth Low Energy Readers for smartphone credentials, Proximity Readers, MIFARE Readers, Dual Technology Readers, PC Enrolment Readers, and Long Range RF Readers. Consumables include MIFARE Cards & Fobs, Proximity Cards & Fobs, and SOLOgarde Cards. Software offerings include GARDiS PRO (scalable platform with optional modules for ANPR, T&A, REST API, third-party integrations), GARDiS EXpress (entry-level 44-door solution), and migration services from EXgarde. The company operates as part of the Vitaprotech Group with ISO9001:2015 and Cyber Essentials Plus certifications.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Products and services

• GARDiS Web Embedded Controller Web-embedded access control unit with embedded server for smaller single-site systems. Manages up to 5,000 credentials standalone (50,000 with GARDiS Software), supports 1, 2 or 4 doors, expandable up to 44 doors. No dedicated PC or software installation required. Target customers: small to mid-sized sites requiring IP-based access control.
• GARDiS Network Controller Network access control unit with native IP for real-time communication, handling up to 50,000 credentials. Designed for multi-site deployments with scalable credential management. Target customers: enterprise and multi-site deployments.
• SOLOgarde Controller Standalone access control solution mounted on secure side of door, separate from reader. Supports up to 1,000 users with MIFARE smart card technology. Programmed using card packs with handheld programming tool. Target customers: small offices and single-door applications.
• EXcel4 Controller Mid to large-size access controller serving 2-4 readers with supervised inputs and relays for alarm conditions and integration with intruder alarms and building management systems. Features built-in TCP/IP port. Target customers: mid-size commercial and institutional sites.
• EXpert4 IP Controller Fully featured networkable access control unit with supervised inputs and relays, capacity up to 36,000 cards. Ideal for high user volume applications through access points in education, health, and commercial buildings. Target customers: high user volume applications.
• EXpert2 Controller Fully-featured networkable access control unit with supervised inputs and relays for alarm conditions and intruder alarm/BMS integration. Master 2-door controller with full TCP/IP connectivity. Target customers: enterprise access control with BMS integration.
• MICROgarde II IP + PSU Controller Cost-effective two-door networkable access control unit with power supply unit. Provides reliable access control for up to 400 doors with central control and event reporting. Target customers: small to medium sites requiring cost-effective networked access control.
• GARDiS Readers Reader range featuring proximity technology with polycarbonate housing for durability. Includes MIFARE, DESfire, and proximity variants in mullion and square form factors with optional keypad. Target customers: organizations using GARDiS access control platforms.
• GARDiS Bluetooth Low Energy Readers Bluetooth Low Energy readers bringing smartphone-based access credentials. Features 5 identification modes including card, remote, slide, hands-free, tap tap, and Siri voice command modes. Patented technology differentiates between access points based on distance. Target customers: organizations seeking mobile credential access control.
• Proximity Readers EM4100/4102/4200 based readers using 125 KHz low frequency passive read-only technology. Includes vandal resistant variants and ABS plastic housings for external or internal use. Target customers: standard access control applications.
• GARDiS PRO Software Browser-based access control management software platform with optional module licenses including site lockdown, fire door release, lift control, ANPR, T&A, REST API, and third-party integrations. Scalable from 44 doors with unlimited users. Target customers: enterprise and multi-site access control deployments.
• EXgarde Software Fully-featured access management PC software with graphical interface supporting multiple doors with unlimited door license option. End of Life as of May 2024 with support until May 2027. Target customers: legacy EXgarde users transitioning to GARDiS platform.
• Product Returns Service Product return service with repair & return, advanced replacement, and wrong item ordered options. Includes warranty periods: EX/MG Controllers 3 years, GARDiS Controllers 5 years, Readers 3 years. Target customers: TDSi product customers needing warranty or return support.
• Training Services Access control training courses delivered at TDSi HQ, business premises, or on-site. Includes GARDiS and EXgarde installer training programs with certification. Part of the Gateway Training programme for Authorised, Gold, and Platinum installer tiers. Target customers: installers, integrators, and certified partners.

Quantifiable outcome

• 100,000+ successful installations worldwide
• +3 more outcomes

Named customers15 records

Segments7 records

Ideal customer profiles7 records

Technology focussed Yes

API detail

Has API

No

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

Integration36 records

Feature7 records

Partnerships

Ten partnerships are on record, tiered core.

• Vitaprotech GroupcoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerTDSi is a member of the Vitaprotech Group, the European leader in securing physical access to sensitive sites. The group includes brands: TDSi, SORHEA, PROTECH, Videowave, TIL Technologies, ARD, Vauban Systems, ESI, and Recas. The group's combined workforce is 450 employees across 10 global locations, with a shared mission to create safer places.
• SupremacoreTechnology or IntegrationSuprema biometric readers (BioEntry W2) integrate with both GARDiS and EXgarde software platforms. Enables fingerprint template enrolment through TDSi software and distribution to biometric readers. Suprema BioStar integration available for GARDiS.
• HikvisioncoreTechnology or IntegrationHikvision ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition) cameras integrate with GARDiS PRO software, enabling vehicle registration to act as a card for access control. Hikvision HikCentral Professional integration also available for CCTV management.
• Assa Abloy (Aperio)coreTechnology or IntegrationAperio wireless locking technology by Assa Abloy integrates with GARDiS software, enabling battery-powered electronic locks with integrated RFID card readers to be wirelessly linked to TDSi access control systems. Supports access grant and remote door release.
• Simons VosscoreTechnology or IntegrationSimons Voss electronic door handles (SmartIntego) integrate with GARDiS software. The elegant, slim electronic door handles incorporate innovative wireless technology that can operate multiple wireless handle sets with access control and remote door release.
• Milestone SystemscoreTechnology or IntegrationMilestone XProtect VMS integrates with GARDiS PRO software via Orbnet, enabling unified security management combining access control and video surveillance.
• Pelco (Motorized Solutions)coreTechnology or IntegrationPelco VideoXpert VMS integrates with GARDiS PRO software, providing video management and access control integration.
• Hanwha VisioncoreTechnology or IntegrationHanwha Vision Wisenet Wave video management integrates with GARDiS PRO software, enabling combined access control and CCTV management.
• MicrosoftcoreTechnology or IntegrationMicrosoft Active Directory integrates with GARDiS PRO software, enabling user credential synchronization between enterprise identity management systems and access control.
• ADI Global DistributioncoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorADI Global Distribution serves as a primary distributor for TDSi products in the UK and France, providing broad market reach for TDSi access control hardware.

Scale indicators4 records

Recent moves7 records

Expansion highlights6 records

Direct peers

• Inner Range: Manufacturer of integrated access control and intruder detection systems (Integriti, Concept) with strong UK and Australian presence. Comparable in targeting enterprise and high-security sites with a full hardware-plus-software stack.
• Paxton Access: Brighton, UK-based manufacturer of access control systems (Net2, Paxton10) targeting the same mid-market and SME installers across the UK. Closest direct competitor to TDSi in scale, geography, and product scope.
• Vanderbilt Industries (ACRE): Provider of access control controllers, readers, and management software (ACT, SMS) across Europe. Direct competitor in the same mid-market access control segment with overlapping integrator channels.

Emerging players

• Verkada: Cloud-native access control and video security provider with strong US enterprise traction. Represents the SaaS/cloud direction of the market that TDSi's on-prem GARDiS model is benchmarked against.
• Brivo: Cloud-based access control SaaS platform serving commercial and multifamily markets. Competes indirectly with TDSi by offering a managed subscription model that contrasts with TDSi's on-prem, license-based approach.

Broad incumbents

• Genetec (Synergis): Genetec's Security Center includes Synergis access control alongside its market-leading VMS, with cloud options (Security Center SaaS). Competes with TDSi in enterprise and integration-rich deployments but covers a much broader security stack.
• Axis Communications (Axis Entry Manager): IP-camera leader that has expanded into network access control with Axis Entry Manager. Competes with TDSi in IP-native, network-attached access control deployments, often leveraging its dominant camera footprint.
• HID Global (Mercury/Linu): ASSA ABLOY-owned identity and access management leader offering controllers (Mercury), readers, credentials, and mobile access. Competes with TDSi across virtually every vertical and product category at a much larger scale.
• LenelS2 (OnGuard): Carrier-owned provider of OnGuard access control, widely deployed in enterprise, government, and education. Direct product overlap with TDSi at the higher end of the market.
• Honeywell Access Control (Pro-Watch): Honeywell's building technologies division offers Pro-Watch and OmniAssure access control as part of a much broader building management portfolio. Competes with TDSi in enterprise and government sites but typically at larger scale.

Market position

Strengths5 records

Weaknesses4 records

Competitive moat5 records

Key risks5 records

Key highlights7 records

Customer concentration

• Xx.com/TDSi_Access
• LinkedInlinkedin.com/company/1384344

Compliance5 records

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Profiles2 records

Funding overview

Funding rounds

Investors

Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

M&A

Investments

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

Frequently asked questions about TDSi