TDSi and Hikvision have partnered to integrate their leading enterprise access control and security product portfolios. As a result, customers can manage and monitor TDSi’s doors from Hikvision’s software HikCentral Professional, as well as creating linkages from TDSi’s access control events to Hikvision’s cameras. Security responses can also be triggered using either of the company’s software platforms. A Hikvision PTZ camera could, for example, be programmed to begin capturing video every time a door is forced or held open. Hikvision interviewed John Davies, TDSi’s Managing Director, to find out more.
Q: What does TDSi do, and what are the key products and technologies you provide for your customers?
A: At TDSi, we provide access control solutions for larger buildings and sites, typically when there are 20 or more doors to be managed. Our GARDiS family of hardware and software products incorporates access control card readers and alarm sensors for intrusion and fire incidents, and browser-based software for managing all connected devices across one or more sites. The entire GARDiS portfolio can also be integrated seamlessly with security and building management systems from other vendors, depending on customers’ needs.
Q: What is special or unique about TDSi solutions, and GARDiS in particular?
A: TDSi products offer enterprise-grade reliability and advanced features, such as access control for site visitors, whole-site lockdown, door release in the event of a fire, lift control, monitoring of area occupancy, and much more. Our GARDiS PRO software is also highly advanced, providing a browser-based control and management application that is easy to use and which is managed centrally in the cloud by TDSi.
Q: What’s the story in terms of integration between GARDiS and Hikvision security systems, and why does it matter for customers?
A: We have an open REST API to support seamless integration between GARDiS and other security and building management systems from other providers. This has allowed us to integrate our solutions seamlessly with Hikvision cameras, via Hikvision’s HikCentral software platform. Basically, this means that TDSi and Hikvision solutions can both be managed and controlled centrally – either using the GARDiS control client, or the HikCentral Pro interface. Ultimately, this gives our clients the freedom to manage their security with whichever system they prefer.
Q: What are some of the other use cases where integration of GARDiS and Hikvision is particularly useful for customers?
A: There are lots of examples we could mention. Imagine, for example, visitors who are allowed access to a building or a particular area of a larger site for a set period of time: the particulars of their visit can be assured based on where and when they use their access control credential, and through Hikvision CCTV cameras. If they overstay their time, or stray from the area they’re authorized to visit, an alarm can be triggered automatically. Another example would be the fact that Hikvision cameras can be activated automatically when someone presents an access credential to a GARDiS door reader. This is a great technique to prevent people following the authorized card holder into a building – something which is known in the security industry as ‘tailgating’.
Q: Do GARDiS customers have to choose specific Hikvision models if they want to benefit from this integration?
A: TDSi’s access control events can trigger any Hikvision security camera that can be managed through the HikCentral software platform. Customers are free to choose and deploy the Hikvision cameras and sensors that best suit their needs and budgets.
Q: Are there other benefits of the GARDiS and HikCentral integration for installers and customers? If so, what are they?
A: Yes, actually, our SI and installer customers initially requested this integration to help them deliver more integrated, seamless solutions for their enterprise customers. Having these two systems talking to each other means that end customers also have a more consistent, simpler experience when it comes to managing their access control and security environments. It’s also worth noting that the high level of integration we’ve achieved makes deployment far easier for our partners.
Q: What’s it like partnering with Hikvision in general – has Hikvision helped you achieve your business goals?
A: Yes, now that the integration is in place, the details and benefits are all on Hikvision’s technology partners portal. In additional, we’re planning a roadshow together and we’ll be doing some joint marketing to outline the benefits of this integration for customers. Because Hikvision is a leading global brand, we will be able to access new opportunities through joint lead generation, and Hikvision will also be able to grow its business with us in the same way. In other words, this integration is good news for both companies, and we look forward to the positive outcomes for both our businesses and our customers.
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