About Us

GDS Instruments (A division of Global Digital Systems Ltd) designs, develops and manufactures materials testing machines and software used for the computer-controlled testing of soils and rocks. This technology is used to evaluate the mechanical properties that are key in geotechnical and earthquake engineering design. Karl Snelling (Managing Director), Jerry Sutton (Technical Director) and Clayton Dodd (Sales Director) have worked at GDS for more than 60 years. This combined experience ensures customers can expect a consistency in the GDS approach of its equipment and its support. GDS equipment is all still designed, sourced, manufactured and tested in the UK.

Brief History

In 2012 GDS became part of the Judges Scientific plc group of companies.  In 2011 GDS were awarded the coveted Queens Award for “Enterprise in International Trade”.  Since being founded in 1979, it is estimated that GDS products have been used to help achieve 1000 Phd's. As well as being the first choice for academic research, GDS products have been used in many world renowned commercial developments including the Three Gorges Dam in China, the Millau Viaduct in France, the Vasco da Gama Bridge in Portugal, Terminal Five at Heathrow and the new Crossrail links in London. 

GDS employs over 50 permanent members of staff at their offices in Hook, Hampshire, UK, as well as working with a network of agents spanning 40 countries. GDS UK based staff include 3 PhD's, 8 qualified geotechnical engineers, 4 software designers, 4 hardware designers and 5 electrical/electronics specialists, allowing GDS the ability to design, build, test and ship their products directly to the customer.


GDS Customers 

GDS work closely with both Research and Commercial companies. Utilising our network of agents has allowed GDS to work in many countries around the world and become involved with some world renowned organisations / institutes on a variety of different projects. Read Our Testimonials Here





Working at GDS
GDS currently employs over 50 permanent members of staff at their offices in Hook, Hampshire, UK, as well as working with a network of agents spanning 40 countries. GDS UK based staff include 8 qualified geotechnical engineers, 4 software designers, 4 hardware designers and 5 electrical/electronics specialists, allowing GDS to design, build, test and ship their products directly to the customer. GDS in-house expertise, allows them the capability design bespoke systems, whilst at the same time as writing any new software without the need to outsource any of the work.

With GDS extensive product range, commitment to research and development and in-house expertise, they are perfectly positioned to assist with any of your Geotechnical requirements. 
In 2011 GDS were presented with the Queens Award for International Trade. The day started with a host of guests, suppliers and staff all mingling together in great anticipation of our special guests. First to arrive was the Lord-Lieutenant's Cadet George Harker-Smith, followed by the Deputy Lieutenant Khalid Aziz, both whom were dressed in full regalia. The Lord-Lieutenant Dame Mary Fagan then arrived to a traditional welcome from the Deputy Lieutenant and Cadet. After a meet and greet with the staff, a tour of the offices and products, the Lord-Lieutenant and her Deputy started the formal presentation ceremony. 

Above is a picture of GDS staff receiving their award