TDSi - Experts & Thought Leaders

The UK’s pioneering Perimeter Intrusion Detection manufacturer Harper Chalice announces it is combining product lines, brands and organisation with fellow Vitaprotech company Hirsch for their UK and Export business activities. The Hirsch product range of high security Physical Access Control, Video, Analytics, and Security Monitoring, Command & Control solutions combined with Harper Chalice’s lineup of National Protective Security Authority approved perimeter intrusion detection solutions represent the UK’s most complete range of physical security solutions.  Range of high-security solutions Hirsch product range of high security Physical Access Control, Video, Analytics, and Security Monitoring “The Harper Chalice name has a long and respected history within the perimeter intrusion market here in the UK. Since our acquisition by Vitaprotech back in 2023, we have taken huge strides to develop the business both here in the UK and overseas," said Adam O’Reilly, Managing Director of Hirsch in the UK. “This combination of our business activities and name change represents much more than a rebrand - it marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter. We’ll continue our development and offer a more comprehensive and innovative range of high security solutions to our customers." Excellence in the high-security market O’Reilly added: "By combining our shared high-security expertise and brand credibility, we are reinforcing our shared commitment to excellence in the high-security market on both sides of the Atlantic." "The scale of Hirsch worldwide will allow us to accelerate our investment in products, offer local-time technical support across multiple time zones, providing more value to our customers and a greater range of solutions for our partners to provide to the market.” Integrated suite of security solutions Harper-Chalice products will be sold and supported across the Americas, and current reach across Europe The combination delivers significant benefits to customers throughout the UK as well as the Americas, as Harper-Chalice products will be sold and supported across the Americas as well as their current reach across Europe and the Middle East. The full range of products provide an integrated suite of security solutions tailored to the most demanding environments which builds upon both companies prestigious place as security providers to some of the most secure locations in both the USA and the UK. High security solutions in the UK Thibaut Galland, UK COO for Vitaprotech, will be the business pioneer for the combined Hirsch UK company, in addition to his role as Managing Director of TDSi. Mr. Galland commented: “This evolution underscores our dedication to providing a complete portfolio of world-class high security solutions in the UK. We believe that this change will put us in a stronger position for the future leveraging our combined strengths to deliver even greater value to our clients.” Product range and technological innovation The move marks the first stage of planned strategic changes within the Vitaprotech Group since its acquisition of Hirsch back in September 2024 and enhances the Groups offering both in the UK and USA, ensuring expanded access to enterprise-scale, high-security solutions. Current Harper Chalice customers can expect the same level of support and reliability under the new Hirsch name, with the added advantage of an enhanced product range and technological innovation.

Altronix, a recognised pioneer in power and data transmission for the professional security industry, is showcasing its latest innovations at stand 5/K30 during The Security Event 2025 in Birmingham, UK. The company’s expanding portfolio of products continues to deliver greater versatility and efficiency for systems integrators and end users — streamlining installations, reducing costs, and enhancing system reliability. New technologies and system reliability "The Security Event provides the perfect platform to demonstrate how Altronix manufactures innovative solutions to address today's security challenges," said Ronnie Pennington, Director of Sales for the Americas at Altronix. "We're focused on showcasing new technologies that not only strengthen and protect critical infrastructure, but also deliver measurable ROI through reduced installation costs and enhanced system reliability." Altronix's innovative solutions at stand 5/K30  Visit stand 5/K30 to experience hands-on demonstrations of Altronix's innovative solutions across these technology categories: NetWay Spectrum with EBC48 Integration: Ruggedised outdoor PoE switches delivering up to 90W per port, now with the EBC48 battery charger that recharges 32AH batteries in under eight hours—ideal for remote deployments with intermittent power. New 277VAC input options now available, supporting mission-critical devices over fibre infrastructure. eBridge™ Ethernet over Coax Solutions: Deploy IP devices utilising existing coax infrastructure up to 300m, while saving time and labour without the need to rip and replace the legacy cabling. Pace™ Long-Range Ethernet Solutions: Extend Ethernet connectivity up to 1000 metres over a single pair or 500 metres over structured cabling—enabling IP devices in remote or industrial locations where standard Ethernet falls short. Pace also supports T1L industrial devices like sensors and controllers. Circ™ Redundant Power Solutions: Circ1ATS supports seamless transition between two independent 115VAC or 230VAC inputs, ensuring uptime during power outages and failures to maintain critical security operations. Trove™ Access and Power Integration Solutions: Pre-wired and pre-configured kits support over 50 pioneering access control brands including AMAG, AXIS, Brivo, Mercury, Software House, and TDSi. Solutions are available in scalable wall or rack-mount configurations, simplifying installation and maintenance with a single point of service. Tempo724Q Programmable Timer: This new dual-channel 24/7 network timer is ideal for applications including access control, lighting, automation, and more. Features include dual form “C” relay contacts, advanced LINQ™ technology for remote diagnostics and scheduling, and reliable synchronisation across systems. LINQ™ Network Power Management: Sophisticated remote monitoring platform enabling real-time control and diagnostics for Altronix devices—maximising uptime, enabling preventative maintenance, and optimising overall performance. Altronix representatives will also be available to discuss the company’s Lifetime Warranty and how their USA-manufactured solutions offer long-term value and performance.

Integrated Access Control and Security manufacturer TDSi announces its upcoming appearance at The Security Event 2025, which is being held at the Birmingham NEC from 8th to 10th April 2025. Appearing on Stand 5/G60, TDSi will be showcasing its newly launched GARDiS v3 Software and previewing the new TDSi Command + Control PSIM solution, along with perimeter intrusion protection solutions from fellow Vitaprotech Group manufacturer Harper Chalice, security and access control solutions from Hirsch and a big announcement. GARDiS v3 software Alex Rumsey, Sales Director – UK at TDSi commented, “We are excited to be exhibiting at The Security Event again this year, particularly as we will be joined by our colleagues from both Harper Chalice and Hirsch." "This is also the debut event of our recently launched GARDiS v3 software and visitors will be able to see it in action. It will also be a first chance to get a sneak preview of our upcoming TDSi Command + Control platform, which includes visualisation of floorplans along with CCTV and intruder monitoring.” GARDiS V3 features GARDiS V3 is the biggest GARDiS update yet and introduces several enhanced features for management GARDiS V3 is the biggest GARDiS update yet and introduces several enhanced features for streamlined access management, advanced reporting, and faster deployment. Key system enhancements include improved controller setup, door access configuration, and a multifactor authentication module for heightened security. There are also enhanced integration capabilities with platforms such as Braxos for building management, and CCTV integrations with Panasonic, Dahua, and Hikvision for live view, playback, and video verification. Vanderbilt intruder alarm integration adds detailed zone monitoring and site plans. GARDiS V3 adds significant flexibility, usability, and value to meet evolving security needs. GARDiS security requirements Alex added, “Myself and the TDSi Team will be available on Stand 5/G60 to provide live demonstrations and to answer any inquiries about extended system functionalities and integrations." "Additionally, we’ll be happy to assist visitors with system design and quotation requests, ensuring that they receive comprehensive support in exploring the potential of GARDiS for their security requirements. We look forward to welcoming you to The Security Event.” Latest GARDiS Version 3 integrated access control software Join TDSi at the event to experience live demonstrations of the advanced access solutions, designed to enhance security, efficiency, and user experience. Gain exclusive insight into the latest innovations, from TDSi Command + Control to the latest GARDiS Version 3 integrated access control software. The team will be on hand to discuss how the solutions can be tailored to meet the evolving demands of high-security environments. They can visit TDSi, Harper Chalice and Hirsch throughout the event on stand 5/G60 from 8th to 10th April at the NEC Birmingham, UK.

Big news on the mergers and acquisitions (M&A) front is closing out 2024, a year in which several shifts changed the face of the physical security manufacturer community. Announced in December, German giant Bosch Group is selling its Building Technologies division’s product business for security and communications technology to the European investment firm Triton.  Bosch division selling to Triton  The transaction encompasses three business units – Video, Access and Intrusion, and Communication – and thus the entire product business of Bosch Building Technologies that was offered for sale. All 4,300 associates employed in these units at more than 90 locations worldwide will be taken over. The transaction reflects a growing confidence in the security market among private equity companies such as Triton, Becklar, and Volaris.   Sharing best practices Acre Security and Bosch will remain independent, standalone companies under Triton’s ownership Acre Security, previously acquired by Triton, has benefited from Triton’s strategic guidance and expertise, according to the company, which is confident Bosch will experience the same level of support and opportunity to thrive. Acre Security and Bosch will remain independent, standalone companies under Triton’s ownership, but will benefit from the potential to collaborate and share best practices as part of the broader Triton portfolio.  Resideo acquires Snap One  Earlier in 2024, there were other large M&A transactions. In the spring, Resideo Technologies, Inc., a manufacturer and distributor of technology-driven products and solutions, agreed to acquire Snap One Holdings Corp., a provider of smart-living products, services, and software to professional integrators. The transaction is valued at $1.4 billion, inclusive of net debt. Upon closing, Snap One becomes part of Resideo's ADI Global Distribution business.  Honeywell buys Carrier’s Access Solutions  In late 2023, Honeywell announced plans to enhance and strengthen its building automation capabilities with the acquisition of Carrier Global Corporation’s Global Access Solutions business for $4.95 billion, in an all-cash transaction.  The acquisition, which played out through 2024, includes both hardware and software solutions, adding three respected brands to Honeywell’s portfolio with a focus on life safety and digital access solutions. Acquired brands include LenelS2, commercial and enterprise access solutions; Onity electronic locks; and Supra cloud-based electronic real estate lock boxes. Hirsch reemerges as an iconic brand  The Identiv sale was originally announced in April, subject to regulatory approval Identiv announced plans to sell its physical security business and assets to Vitaprotech, the security solutions provider that also acquired British manufacturer, TDSI, in 2019. The Identiv sale was originally announced in April, subject to regulatory approval.  As a result of the sale, Hirsch, a global security technology pioneer advancing physical security, video intelligence, cybersecurity, and digital identification solutions, announces the relaunch of its iconic brand and strengthened focus on the industry’s most complete high-security, end-to-end platform.  Ease of use security solutions The move seeks to reposition Hirsch as the global pioneer in physical security, video intelligence, and identity solutions, protecting everything from small enterprises to critical national infrastructure. With a 43-year-strong foundation in the industry, Hirsch’s mission has always been empowering a secure, connected world, combining government-grade high security with ease of use. Milestone and Arcules unite  Effective July 1, 2024, global video technology company Milestone Systems announced its merger with the cloud-based video surveillance solutions provider, Arcules. Both companies are owned by Japanese multinational Canon Inc. Based in Irvine, Calif., Arcules was spun off from Milestone in 2017. The merger brings together Milestone and Arcules’ best-in-class capabilities within video management software (VMS), video analytics, and video surveillance as a service (VSaaS), providing a complete video technology offering.  More M&A stories in 2024  In other M&A moves in 2024, cloud-based workforce management software provider Synerion USA Inc. acquired cloud-based video surveillance and access control solutions platform Qumulex Inc. Also, the global pioneer in airspace awareness and security, Dedrone, became part of the public safety and technology company Axon. The acquisition unites two companies with a shared mission to improve public safety and national security by staying ahead of persistent and escalating threats, enabling faster, more effective responses and ultimately protecting more lives in more places.

By all accounts, technology development is moving at a rapid pace in today's markets, including the physical security industry. However, market uptake of the newest technologies may lag, whether because of a lack of clear communication or not enough education of potential customers. We asked this week's Expert Panel Roundtable: How can the industry do a better job of promoting emerging technologies in physical security environments?

Technology automates tasks, streamlines processes, and improves efficiency in various fields, including physical security. But the success of today’s latest technologies depends on our ability to use them responsibly and efficiently. Optimising our industry’s use of technology requires that the industry’s workforce have the needed skills to operate the latest equipment. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: How does technology innovation in security systems impact the skillsets needed by security operators and officers?