A1.9 FirstSource III Amendment 1 Q and A Part 2 Technical Questions.pdf

FirstSource III Solicitation Questions and Answers Part 2: Technical Questions

70RTAC21R00000003 Amendment 0001

Q# Page Section Paragraph Question Answer 1 2.1.1 ITVAR Salient

Characteristics Please change "Maximum overall case dimensions" to "Recommended overall case dimensions".

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions 2 2.1.1 ITVAR Salient

Characteristics "4GB (DDR3) SDRAM 1333MHz" is EOL/DISCO, Please update the memory spec to "8GB (DDR4) SDRAM 2933MHz".

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions 3 2.1.1 ITVAR Salient

Characteristics "Supports at least two quad core (8 CPUs) processor" is not a valid description. Please update to something like "Single CPU with minimum of 8 Cores and 16 Threads". If you WANT a Dual CPU Configuration, then include "Dual CPUs with minimum of 4 Cores and 8 Threads per CPU" for example.

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

4 2.1.1 ITVAR Salient Characteristics

"Processor running at 3.2 GHz or better / quad core" is confusing. Please REMOVE the reference to "quad core" when specifying a minimum GHz.

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions 5 2.1.1 ITVAR Salient

Characteristics "1000 MHz or faster front side bus" has no meaning anymore. Please DELETE this line.

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions 6 2.1.1 ITVAR Salient

Characteristics "At least two (2) 300 GB disk drives with performance characteristics equal to or exceeding U320 15000 RPM drive technology" is old terminology and is no longer valid. Please update the requirement to read something like "At least two (2) 300 GB drives (SSD/HDD) that utilize the 6Gb/s SATA3 Interface". Alternatively, you can specify "NVMe" or "12Gb/s SAS3", noting that those specifications may increase cost and require additional hardware."

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

7 2.1.1 ITVAR Salient Characteristics

"At least one additional PCI slot to add optional cards as needed" should read "At least one additional PCI/PCIe slot to add optional cards as needed" as most systems no longer support PCI (old specification).

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

8 2.1.1 ITVAR Salient Characteristics

"At least two (2) 1394a (Firewire 800) ports - of which at least one must be on the front, and one on the back."

is not current and is no longer in use, having been

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions replaced by USB 3.1, USB 3.2 and Thunderbolt.

Please REMOVE this requirement, or replace with USB 3.1, USB 3.2 or Thunderbolt.

9 2.1.1 ITVAR Salient Characteristics

Options listed:

"Upgrade hard drive to 2x the proposed base system Upgrade to 8GB RAM Upgrade to 16GB RAM" should be updated to reflect current standards of 16GB, 32GB, or 64GB, and should reference both SSD and

HDD.

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

10 2.1.2 ITVAR Salient Characteristics

Please change "Maximum overall case dimensions" to "Recommended overall case dimensions".

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions 11 2.1.2 ITVAR Salient

Characteristics "4GB (DDR3) SDRAM 1333MHz" is EOL/DISCO, Please update the memory spec to "8GB (DDR4) SDRAM 2933MHz".

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions 12 2.1.2 ITVAR Salient

Characteristics "Supports at least two dual core or one quad core (4 CPUs) processor(s)" is not a valid description. Please update to something like "Single CPU with minimum of 4 Cores and 8 Threads". If you WANT a Dual CPU Configuration, then include "Dual CPUs with minimum of 4 Cores and 8 Threads per CPU" for example.

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

13 2.1.2 ITVAR Salient Characteristics

"Processor(s) running at 3.0 GHz or better / dual core or quad core" is confusing. Please REMOVE the reference to "dual core or quad core" when specifying a minimum GHz.

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

14 2.1.2 ITVAR Salient Characteristics

"1000 MHz or faster front side bus" has no meaning anymore. Please DELETE this line.

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions 15 2.1.2 ITVAR Salient

Characteristics "At least two (2) 300 GB disk drives with performance characteristics equal to or exceeding U320 15000 RPM drive technology" is old terminology and is no longer valid. Please update the requirement to read something like "At least two (2) 300 GB drives (SSD/HDD) that utilize the 6Gb/s SATA3 Interface". Alternatively, you can specify

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient

"NVMe" or "12Gb/s SAS3", noting that those specifications may increase cost and require additional hardware."

16 2.1.2 ITVAR Salient Characteristics

"At least one additional PCI slot to add optional cards as needed" should read "At least one additional PCI/PCIe slot to add optional cards as needed" as most systems no longer support PCI (old specification).

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

17 2.1.2 ITVAR Salient Characteristics

"At least two (2) 1394a (Firewire 800) ports - of which at least one must be on the front, and one on the back."

is not current and is no longer in use, having been replaced by USB 3.1, USB 3.2 and Thunderbolt.

Please REMOVE this requirement, or replace with USB 3.1, USB 3.2 or Thunderbolt.

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

18 2.1.2 ITVAR Salient Characteristics

Options listed:

"Upgrade hard drive to 2x the proposed base system Upgrade to 8GB RAM Upgrade to 12GB RAM" should be updated to reflect current standards of 16GB, 32GB, or 64GB, and should reference both SSD and

HDD.

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

19 2.1.3 ITVAR Salient Characteristics

Please change "Maximum overall case dimensions" to "Recommended overall case dimensions".

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions 20 2.1.3 ITVAR Salient

Characteristics "4GB (DDR3) SDRAM 1333MHz" is EOL/DISCO, Please update the memory spec to "8GB (DDR4) SDRAM 2933MHz".

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions 21 2.1.3 ITVAR Salient

Characteristics "Supports at least one dual core (2 CPUs) processor" is not a valid description. Please update to something like "Single CPU with minimum of 4 Cores and 8 Threads".

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions 22 2.1.3 ITVAR Salient

Characteristics "Processor(s) running at 2.66 GHz or better / dual core" is confusing. Please REMOVE the reference to "dual core" when specifying a minimum GHz.

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions 23 2.1.3 ITVAR Salient

Characteristics "1000 MHz or faster front side bus" has no meaning anymore. Please DELETE this line.

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient

24 2.1.3 ITVAR Salient Characteristics

"At least 250GB SATA 3.0Gb/s and 8MB Data Burst Cache or SSD If Available" is not current technology, SATA 3.0Gb/s or SATA2 has been replaced by 6Gb/s SATA3. You do not need to specify the "8MB Data Burst Cache" as that would not even apply if an SSD is provided. All SATA3 hard drives include a cache (industry standard) so it is an unnecessary specification.

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

25 2.1.3 ITVAR Salient Characteristics

"At least one additional PCI slot to add optional cards as needed" should read "At least one additional PCI/PCIe slot to add optional cards as needed" as most systems no longer support PCI (old specification).

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

26 2.1.3 ITVAR Salient Characteristics

"At least two (2) 9 pin serial ports, addressable at a BIOS/DOS level" is not standard. Please change this to "one (1) 9 pin serial port is DESIRABLE", and remove the reference to DOS.

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

27 2.1.3 ITVAR Salient Characteristics

"Graphics capability that supports at least two (2) single link video connections with a 1940x1200 resolution or better". 1940x1200 is a typo. We believe this should read 1920x1200.

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

28 2.1.3 ITVAR Salient Characteristics

Options listed:

"Upgrade hard drive to 2x the proposed base system Upgrade to 8GB RAM 25 pin parallel interface addressable from DOS PS/2 based keyboard interface addressable from DOS PS/2 Keyboard" should be updated to reflect current standards of 16GB, 32GB, or 64GB, and should reference both SSD and HDD. In addition, all references to DOS should be removed (or replaced by Windows 10), and PS/2 should be updated to reflect USB or PS/2. Please consider removing the reference to parallel interface as that is non-standard.

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

29 2.1.4 ITVAR Salient Characteristics

Please change "Maximum overall case dimensions" to "Recommended overall case dimensions".

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient

30 2.1.4 ITVAR Salient

"4GB (DDR3) SDRAM 1333MHz" is EOL/DISCO, Please update the memory spec to "8GB (DDR4) SDRAM 2933MHz".

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions 31 2.1.4 ITVAR Salient

Characteristics "At least 250GB SATA 3.0Gb/s and 8MB Data Burst Cache or SSD If Available" is not current technology, SATA 3.0Gb/s or SATA2 has been replaced by 6Gb/s SATA3. You do not need to specify the "8MB Data Burst Cache" as that would not even apply if an SSD is provided. All SATA3 hard drives include a cache (industry standard) so it is an unnecessary specification.

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

32 2.1.4 ITVAR Salient Characteristics

"At least one additional PCI slot to add optional cards as needed" should read "At least one additional PCI/PCIe slot to add optional cards as needed" as most systems no longer support PCI (old specification).

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

33 2.1.4 ITVAR Salient Characteristics

"At least two (2) 9 pin serial ports, addressable at a BIOS/DOS level" is not standard. Please change this to "one (1) 9 pin serial port is DESIRABLE", and remove the reference to DOS.

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

34 2.1.4 ITVAR Salient Characteristics

"Graphics capability that supports at least one video connection with a 1400x1050 resolution or better" is not standard. We believe this should read 1680x1050.

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions 35 2.1.4 ITVAR Salient

Characteristics Options listed:

"Upgrade hard drive to 2x the proposed base system Upgrade to 8GB RAM 25 pin parallel interface addressable from DOS PS/2 based keyboard interface addressable from DOS PS/2 Keyboard" should be updated to reflect current standards of 16GB, 32GB, or 64GB, and should reference both SSD and HDD. In addition, all references to DOS should be removed (or replaced by Windows 10), and PS/2 should be updated to reflect USB or PS/2. Please consider removing the reference to parallel interface as that is non-standard.

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient

36 2.1.5 ITVAR Salient

"3.5” External USB Floppy Drive" is EOL/DISCO and is only available for special situations of compatibility with very old systems. Please REMOVE this optional upgrade.

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

37 3.1.1 ITVAR Salient Characteristics

"Large Processor Blade" implies some type of CHASSIS. You have not included any specifications about the CHASSIS. Are you asking JUST for the BLADE to be quoted WITHOUT the CHASSIS? You do realize that a BLADE without a CHASSIS is NON- FUNCTIONAL. If you want this to be a STANDALONE Server, you should change the NAME to "Large Processor SERVER". At the same time, your upgrade OPTIONS, imply you want to purchase additional BLADES, since currently you are limited to 112 Cores per 4 Socket Blade with Intel CPUs, and yet you are asking for upgrades to 128 Cores and 192 Cores. There are some potential exceptions that could work around some of this, but we do not believe that was your INTENT.

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

38 3.1.1 ITVAR Salient Characteristics

"Four multi Core Processor (96 CPUs) – 2.4GHz minimum processor speed" should read "(96 Cores, 24 Cores per CPU)". Please revise.

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions 39 3.1.1 ITVAR Salient

Characteristics "RAID Support for levels 0, 1, 5, and 10 with disks on chassis" does not make sense in the context of a traditional server. Are you IMPLYING that you want a DISKLESS BLADE, and that you want support for a SEPARATE STORAGE capability? That is HIGHLY RESTRICTIVE and eliminates MANY standard manufacturers. Please consider REVISING and CLARIFYING, especially since you have not specified anything about a CHASSIS.

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

40 3.1.1 ITVAR Salient Characteristics

"Options:

Upgrade Processors to 128 Cores Upgrade Processors to 192 Cores" as noted above implies that ability to add more BLADES. Currently standard Quad CPU Solutions using Intel 2nd

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient

Generation Scalable CPUs are MAXIMUM 112 Cores @ 28 Cores per CPU.

41 3.1.2 ITVAR Salient Characteristics

"Medium Processor Blade" implies some type of CHASSIS. You have not included any specifications about the CHASSIS. Are you asking JUST for the BLADE to be quoted WITHOUT the CHASSIS? You do realize that a BLADE without a CHASSIS is NON- FUNCTIONAL. If you want this to be a STANDALONE Server, you should change the NAME to "Medium Processor SERVER". At the same time, your upgrade OPTIONS, imply you want to purchase additional BLADES, since currently you are limited to 56 Cores per 2 Socket Blade with Intel CPUs, and yet you are asking for upgrades to 64 Cores and 96 Cores.

There are some potential exceptions that could work around some of this, but we do not believe that was your INTENT.

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

42 3.1.2 ITVAR Salient Characteristics

"Two Multi Core Processor (48 CPUS) – 2.2GHz minimum processor speed" should read "(48 Cores, 24 Cores per CPU)". Please revise.

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions 43 3.1.2 ITVAR Salient

Characteristics "RAID Support for levels 0, 1, 5, and 10 with disks on chassis" does not make sense in the context of a traditional server. Are you IMPLYING that you want a DISKLESS BLADE, and that you want support for a SEPARATE STORAGE capability? That is HIGHLY RESTRICTIVE and eliminates MANY standard manufacturers. Please consider REVISING and CLARIFYING, especially since you have not specified anything about a CHASSIS.

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

44 3.1.2 ITVAR Salient Characteristics

"Options:

Upgrade Processors to 64 Cores Upgrade Processors to 96 Cores" as noted above implies that ability to add more BLADES. Currently standard Dual CPU Solutions using Intel 2nd Generation Scalable CPUs are MAXIMUM 56 Cores @ 28 Cores per CPU. Higher Core counts are available

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient using AMD EPYC CPUs, but we do NOT believe your intent is to have the CPU Manufacturer be changed as part of an available UPGRADE Option.

45 3.1.3 ITVAR Salient Characteristics

"Small Processor Blade" implies some type of CHASSIS. You have not included any specifications about the CHASSIS. Are you asking JUST for the BLADE to be quoted WITHOUT the CHASSIS? You do realize that a BLADE without a CHASSIS is NON- FUNCTIONAL. If you want this to be a STANDALONE Server, you should change the NAME to "Small Processor SERVER".

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

46 3.1.3 ITVAR Salient Characteristics

"Two Multi Core Processor (40 CPUS) – 2GHz minimum processor speed" should read "(40 Cores, 20 Cores per CPU)". Please revise.

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions 47 3.1.3 ITVAR Salient

Characteristics "RAID Support for levels 0, 1, 5, and 10 with disks on chassis" does not make sense in the context of a traditional server. Are you IMPLYING that you want a DISKLESS BLADE, and that you want support for a SEPARATE STORAGE capability? That is HIGHLY RESTRICTIVE and eliminates MANY standard manufacturers. Please consider REVISING and CLARIFYING, especially since you have not specified anything about a CHASSIS.

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

48 3.1.4 ITVAR Salient Characteristics

"Fiber Channel Bundle" is highly restrictive and PROPRIETARY, and should be revised to include 25GbE or Higher Speeds as an alternative to Fiber Channel for SAN Connectivity.

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

49 3.1.4 ITVAR Salient Characteristics

Within the "Fiber Channel Bundle" we do not understand the reference to "Dual 100/1000MB Network interface", as this appears to be some type of PROPRIETARY reference to Ethernet connectivity within a Fiber Channel Bundle. These technologies are

NOT RELATED.

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

50 3.2.1 ITVAR Salient Characteristics

"At least 8 Available PCIe slots available through risers or on-board" is highly restrictive for a BASIC SERVER (i.e. reads like a PROPRIETARY SPEC from

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient

DELL). We are not saying it cannot be met, but the specification for a BASIC SERVER should be BASIC, meaning 4 Available PCIe slots for example.

51 3.2.2 ITVAR Salient Characteristics

"Dual (2 CPUs) Processor or higher - 3.16 GHz minimum processor" does not include any reference to a MINIMUM CORE COUNT (unusual, since you have included it on nearly every other BLADE/SERVER).

Also, GHz ratings are no longer stated with 2 decimal places, so please REVISE to either 3.1GHz or 3.2GHz, and consider adding a MINIMUM CORE COUNT, i.e.

4 Cores per CPU, 8 Cores TOTAL.

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

52 3.2.2 ITVAR Salient Characteristics

"1000 MHz or faster front side bus" has no meaning

Descriptions 53 3.2.2 ITVAR Salient

Characteristics "Minimum Internal Storage 5 x 146GB 15K RPM disk drives" are no longer available. Please revise to "5x

300GB".

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions 54 3.2.2 ITVAR Salient

Characteristics "External tape support" implies the inclusion of a HOST BUS ADAPTER (HBA) and a CONNECTION CABLE. This should likely NOT BE STANDARD on every MEDIUM SERVER. Please consider REMOVING this REQUIREMENT and/or clarify that you specifically want an HBA and CABLE included, and whether it should be SAS2 or SAS3 or some other standard (i.e. FC). The External Connection on a standard RAID Controller is NOT normally used to support an external TAPE drive (There may be rare exceptions, but it would be considered POOR DESIGN, and a potential FAILURE item).

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

55 3.2.2 ITVAR Salient Characteristics

"External 3.5" Floppy Drive" is EOL/DISCO and is only available for special situations of compatibility with very old systems. Please REMOVE this optional upgrade.

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

56 3.2.3 ITVAR Salient Characteristics

"Quad (4 CPUs) Processor or higher - 2.93 GHz minimum processor" does not include any reference to a MINIMUM CORE COUNT (unusual, since you have

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient included it on nearly every other BLADE/SERVER).

Also, GHz ratings are no longer stated with 2 decimal places, so please REVISE to either 2.9GHz or 3.0GHz, and consider adding a MINIMUM CORE COUNT, i.e.

4 Cores per CPU, 16 Cores TOTAL.

57 3.2.3 ITVAR Salient Characteristics

"Capable of expansion to four quad (16 CPUs) processors", we assume you are talking about 16 Cores, so if your intent is (16 Cores per CPU, 64 Cores total), please revise.

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

58 3.2.3 ITVAR Salient Characteristics

"Minimum 16GB Memory – no more than 8 DIMMS, expandable to 64GB", with standard memory sizes of 8GB, 16GB, 32GB, and 64GB, the minimum memory would need to be 32GB, as you must have one memory module per CPU at a minimum (4x 8GB). Please consider revising this spec as needed.

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

59 3.2.3 ITVAR Salient Characteristics

"800 MHz or faster front side bus" has no meaning

Descriptions 60 3.2.3 ITVAR Salient

Characteristics "Minimum Internal Storage 2 x 73GB 15K RPM disk drives" are no longer available. Please revise to "2x

300GB".

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions 61 3.2.3 ITVAR Salient

Characteristics "At least 2 Available PCI-X slots" are no longer available on servers. Please DELETE this line.

Descriptions 62 3.2.3 ITVAR Salient

Characteristics "External tape support" implies the inclusion of a HOST BUS ADAPTER (HBA) and a CONNECTION CABLE. This should likely NOT BE STANDARD on every MEDIUM SERVER. Please consider REMOVING this REQUIREMENT and/or clarify that you specifically want an HBA and CABLE included, and whether it should be SAS2 or SAS3 or some other standard (i.e. FC). The External Connection on a standard RAID Controller is NOT normally used to support an external TAPE drive (There may be rare exceptions, but it would be considered POOR DESIGN, and a potential FAILURE item).

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient

63 3.2.3 ITVAR Salient

"External 3.5" Floppy Drive" is EOL/DISCO and is only available for special situations of compatibility with very old systems. Please REMOVE this optional upgrade.

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

64 5.1 Attachment 8 Salient Characteristics

Section 5.1 of the Salient Characteristics includes specifications for monitors. Included in each specification is a requirement for both 4K capability, and for a VGA input. Based on our market research, this combination would limit the commercially available options to a single manufacturer’s product line. To enable wider competition and ensure the best value to the government, we would like to request that the requirement for either 4K or VGA be adjusted or removed, or that offerors be allowed to package adapters alongside the monitors to meet the VGA requirement.

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

65 5.4 Attachment 8 Section 5.4 of the Salient Characteristics includes specifications for a Desktop Printer, including requirements for a 24 PPM ISO Color Print Speed, and the use of Thermal Inkjet technology. Our market research shows that commercially available Inkjet printers capable of color printing at this speed are rare and considerably more expensive than typical business-class printers. To maximize the savings to the government on this contract, we would like to request that the required ISO Color Print Speed be reduced to the industry standard of 20 PPPM, or that the specification allow Laser printing technology to be used.

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

66 C.3.2 The software maintenance part numbers in the software pricing template differ from the manufacturer's part number. For instance, when a part number was cross-referenced with Informatica, the Informatica part number does not appear in the template. Additionally, there are many versions depending on applicable connectors that will complete the functionality. Lastly, The Informatica Software has been removed from the pricing model. All other part numbers remain the same.

Where part numbers differ, offerors may propose an “or equal” solution, such as the original license SKU to meet this requirement.

the number of cores will depend on the amount of data involved and 4 cores has been the minimum for some time now although 4 is not a mandatory.

Can the government provide the manufacture’s part numbers, the needed connectors, and the number of cores?

67 Salient Characteristics 1.1.1 Highly Portable Notebook VGA 15 pin interface Video Output – Typically systems now have a HDMI or Display Port

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions 68 Salient Characteristics 1.1.2 Standard Notebook

VGA 15 pin interface Video Output - Typically systems now have a HDMI or Display Port Minimum 2 GB, 800 MHz DDR2 or DDR3 – DDR3 RAM was released in 2007 and was replaced by DDR4 in 2014. The minimum current RAM configuration is

8GB

At least 1 available PC card slot (Type I and Type II compatible) – This Hardware interface went EOL in 2009 (Replaced by the Express Card which went EOL in 2011). No variant of this Hardware interface is available for currently offered systems.

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

69 Salient Characteristics 1.1.3 Large Notebook Minimum 2 GB, 800 MHz DDR2 or DDR3 – DDR3 RAM was released in 2007 and was replaced by DDR4 in 2014 Minimum 4 GB RAM - DDR3 RAM was released in 2007 and was replaced by DDR4 in 2014. The minimum current RAM configuration is 8GB VGA 15 pin interface Video Output - Typically systems now have a HDMI or Display Port At least 1 available PC card slot (Type I and Type II compatible) – This Hardware interface went EOL in 2009 (Replaced by the Express Card which went EOL in 2011). No variant of this Hardware interface is available for currently offered systems

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient

70 Salient Characteristics 1.1.4 Ruggedized Notebook Minimum 2GB SDRAM (DDR3-1066MHz) - DDR3 RAM was released in 2007 and was replaced by DDR4 in 2014. The minimum current RAM configuration is

8GB

VGA 15 pin interface - Typically systems now have a HDMI or Display Port At least 1 available PC card slot (Type I and Type II compatible) – This Hardware interface went EOL in 2009 (Replaced by the Express Card which went EOL in 2011). No variant of this Hardware interface is available for currently offered systems

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

71 Salient Characteristics 1.1.5 Ruggedized Tablet Minimum 2GB SDRAM (DDR3-800MHz) - DDR3 RAM was released in 2007 and was replaced by DDR4 in 2014. The minimum current RAM configuration is

8GB

At least 1 available PC card slot (Type I and Type II compatible) – This Hardware interface went EOL in 2009 (Replaced by the Express Card which went EOL in 2011). No variant of this Hardware interface is available for currently offered systems

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

72 Salient Characteristics 1.1.6 Desktop Replacement bundle Notebook Docking station with port replicator (PS/2 port) - PS/2 is an outdated port option which has now been mostly replaced by USB alternatives PS/2 Keyboard

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

73 Salient Characteristics 2.1.1 Advanced Technical Stand-alone Workstation (ALSO applies to all of the other workstation configurations) At least 4GB (DDR3) SDRAM 1333MHz or faster - DDR3 RAM was released in 2007 and was replaced by DDR4 in 2014. The minimum current RAM configuration is 8GB At least two (2) 300 GB disk drives with performance characteristics equal to or

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient exceeding U320 15000 RPM drive technology - UltraWide SCSI 320 (U320) – This connection type was replaced by SAS at the end of 2005. By 2008 the drives were widely discontinued by OEM’s At least one additional PCI slot to add optional cards as needed – This slot interface has now been typically replaced by the PCI-E (PCI Express) slot At least two (2) 1394a (Firewire 800) ports - of which at least one must be on the front, and one on the back.

This interface has been replaced by the much faster USB-c and USB 3.1 interfaces. Fire is not a currently available by option by OEM vendors, however aftermarket adapters may still be available.

No 3.5” floppy drives available (outdated technology).

74 Attachment 8 1. Small Form Factor Devices:

1.1.1 Highly Portable Notebook

1.1.2 Standard Notebook

1.1.3 Large Notebook

The resolutions listed for the notebooks are incorrectly identified as having a 16:9 aspect ratio. Will the government all us to substitute FHD (1920x1080) in these cases to meet the 16:9 aspect ratio requirement and provide a more standard and higher resolution?

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

75 Attachment 8 1. Small Form Factor Devices:

1.1.1 Highly Portable Notebook

1.1.2 Standard Notebook

1.1.3 Large Notebook

The terminology referring to CPUs has changed somewhat. When number of CPUs is mentioned, is the government referring to core count per individual CPUs (for instance 1 CPU with 8 computational cores)?

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient

76 Attachment 8 1. Small Form Factor Devices:

1.1.2 Standard Notebook

1.1.3 Large Notebook

Will the government accept an integrated graphics card?

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

77 Attachment 8 1. Small Form Factor Devices:

1.1.1 Highly Portable Notebook

1.1.2 Standard Notebook

1.1.3 Large Notebook

Will the government accept an adapter for the VGA requirement?

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

78 Attachment 8 1. Small Form Factor Devices:

1.1.1 Highly Portable Notebook

1.1.2 Standard Notebook

1.1.3 Large Notebook

Will the government change the PS2 port requirement to allow industry standard USB?

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

79 Attachment 8 2. Static Device:

2.1.1 Advanced Technical Stand-alone Workstation

Does the advance workstation require 2 hard drives, or will the government allow the same capacity with a single larger drive?

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions The government has specified dual drives to allow for RAID 0 (mirroring) configuration for higher reliability.

80 Attachment 8 2. Static Device:

2.1.2 Super-User Stand-alone Workstation

Does the Super User Workstation require 2 hard drives, or will the government allow the same capacity with a single larger drive?

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

81 Attachment 8 3. Domain Device:

3.1 Blade Server:

3.1.1 Large Processor Blade

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient

3.1.2 Medium Processor Blade

3.1.3 Small Processor Blade

3.1.4 Processor Blade Options

Will the government please confirm if this requirement is calling out for 1U/2U/4U rack mount servers or for true modular blade form factor servers?

82 Attachment 8 3. Domain Device:

3.1 Blade Server:

3.1.1 Large Processor Blade

3.1.2 Medium Processor Blade

3.1.3 Small Processor Blade

3.1.4 Processor Blade Options

Will the government please confirm if this blade form factor, should have the chassis and related components be included as options?

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

83 Attachment 8 3. Domain Device:

3.1 Blade Server:

3.1.1 Large Processor Blade

3.1.2 Medium Processor Blade

3.1.3 Small Processor Blade

3.1.4 Processor Blade Options

Will the government please confirm if the processor core specs indicated are representative of vCPU or pCPU counts?

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

84 Attachment 8 3.2 Server Systems:

3.2.1 Basic Server

3.2.2 Medium Server

3.2.3 Large Server

External storage array support is needed. Can the government please confirm if the array in question be FC, iSCSI or SAS? Should the controllers required for this support be included in the server pricing?

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient

85 Attachment 8 3.2 Server Systems:

3.2.1 Basic Server

3.2.2 Medium Server

3.2.3 Large Server

PCI-e has replaced the PCI/PCI-X standard. Can the government please confirm if the additional PCI-e slots be an acceptable alternative to the PCI-X spec?

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

86 Attachment 8 4. VDI (Desktop Virtualization)

4.1 Business Functions

4.1.1 Client Infrastructure

4.1.2 Server Infrastructure

4.1.3 Management Infrastructure

In order to provide an accurate response to this request, will the government provide significantly more details and specific server and networking requirements.

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

87 Attachment 8 4. VDI (Desktop Virtualization)

4.1 Business Functions

4.1.1 Client Infrastructure

4.1.2 Server Infrastructure

4.1.3 Management Infrastructure

Will the government confirm if this Box type or All-In-one solution for the VDI solution ?

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

88 Attachment 8 4. VDI (Desktop Virtualization)

4.1 Business Functions

4.1.1 Client Infrastructure

4.1.2 Server Infrastructure

4.1.3 Management Infrastructure

Will the government confirm if this what are the spec requirements. i.e. RAM, SSD, inputs, WIFI, SFP, etc.

for the VDI solution ?

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient

89 Attachment 8 4. VDI (Desktop Virtualization)

4.1 Business Functions

4.1.1 Client Infrastructure

4.1.2 Server Infrastructure

4.1.3 Management Infrastructure

Will the government confirm if this what are the spec requirements. i.e. Linux or WIN IoT?

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

90 Attachment 8 4. VDI (Desktop Virtualization)

4.1 Business Functions

4.1.1 Client Infrastructure

4.1.2 Server Infrastructure

4.1.3 Management Infrastructure

Will the government confirm what Warranty duration they are looking for ?

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

91 Attachment 8 5.1 Monitors:

5.1.1 24" Wide Flat Panel

5.1.2 25" Wide Flat Panel

5.1.3 27" Wide Flat Panel

5.1.4 32" Wide Flat Panel

Will the government please confirm if the 9" depth on the Monitors needs to be with or without the stand, or can it be increased to 10"

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

92 Attachment 8 5.1 Monitors:

5.1.2 25" Wide Flat Panel

Instead of the 25" display that is not much different from the 24"/27", would the government accept a 34" display as an alternate? Increasing requests coming in for that size and the duration of this contract suggests there will be more adoption of this product as this contract matures.

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient

93 Attachment 8 5.3 Docking Stations

-Will the government confirm which Revision of USB- C?

-Will this Interface have DisplayPort over USB-C?

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions.

If a specific version of a standard is not specified, then devices compliant with any version of the standard may be proposed.

94 Attachment 8 5.3 Docking Stations

Which revision of DisplayPort is the government referring to?

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions.

If a specific version of a standard is not specified, then devices compliant with any version of the standard may be proposed.

95 Attachment 8 5.3 Docking Stations

Will the government accept a 2.5 Gigabit port?

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions.

The requirements may be exceeded as long as they are still backward compatible to the capability specified.

96 Attachment 8 5.3 Docking Stations

Will the government confirm if this Dock will always be connected to a Thunderbolt 3 or Thunderbolt 4 Port?

Thunderbolt notebooks may have usb-c ports that are not thunderbolt enabled.

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

97 Attachment 8 5.3 Docking Stations

Will the government confirm the following specs:

-Which data Spec of USB-C is required?

-With USB 3.0, does every port need to support charging ports as well as data?

-What power output is required for each USB Port?

-Is charging port defined as BC 1.2?

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient

98 Attachment 8 5.3 Docking Stations

Will the government please confirm the following specs:

-Is this USB-C port in addition to the one on interfaces or is this clarifying the port specs?

-Which lock slots are considered standard?

-What is small footprint defined as?

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

99 Attachment 8 5.3 Docking Stations

Will the government please confirm the following spec:

-What display resolutions need to be supported?

-Will all systems support HBR3 over USB-C from the host system?

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

100 Attachment 8 5.3 Docking Stations

• Power to System – Up to 100W via USB-C

• Power to Host (USB-C PD) – 5V, 9V, 10V, 12V, 15V, 20V, all at 5A MAX - Will the government confirm the difference between power to host (bottom spec) and power to system (top line) ?

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

101 Attachment 8 5.3 Docking Stations

Will the government open the docking station specs to support 2 monitors at 4K ?

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

102 Attachment 8 FirstSource III - RFP_Attachment 8 ITVAR Pricing Schedule Salient Characteristics and Labor Category Descriptions.pdf

1.1 Notebook/Portable Workstations

1.1.1 Highly Portable Notebook;

1.1.2 Standard Notebook;

1.1.3 Large Notebook

Options:

o Additional battery

Regarding the “additional battery,” under “options,” requirement; no commercially available laptop on the market has a “hot swap” battery anymore and this is a legacy capability. If a backup battery is required, please confirm that a “power bank” will meet this requirement.

103 FirstSource III - RFP_Attachment 8 ITVAR Pricing Schedule Salient Characteristics and Labor Category Descriptions.pdf

1.1 Notebook/Portable Workstations

1.1.2 Standard Notebook;

1.1.3 Large Notebook

• At least 1 available PC card slot (Type I and Type II compatible)

Regarding the “at least 1 available PC card slot (Type-I & Type-II)” requirement: we recommend removing this requirement entirely, as it’s considered a legacy card, or change requirement to read “at least 1 available PC card slot (Type-I & Type-II compatible) OR SD card slot.”

Also, if a memory card slot is required, please allow for external SD card readers to meet this requirement.

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

104 FirstSource III - RFP_Attachment 8 ITVAR Pricing Schedule Salient Characteristics and Labor Category Descriptions.pdf

1.1 Notebook/Portable Workstations

1.1.1 Highly Portable Notebook;

1.1.2 Standard Notebook;

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient

1.1.3 Large Notebook;

1.1.4 Ruggedized Notebook

• VGA 15 pin interface Video Output

Regarding the “VGA Video Output” requirement:

VGA is now considered a legacy port, with most manufacturers opting to either include an HDMI or mini DisplayPort in addition to DisplayPort over USB- C. Will an alternative video port (such as HDMI or USB-C) be considered compliant in lieu of a VGA port? If not, will a VGA adapter be acceptable?

105 FirstSource III - RFP_Attachment 8 ITVAR Pricing Schedule Salient Characteristics and Labor Category Descriptions.pdf

1.1 Notebook/Portable Workstations

1.1.1 Highly Portable Notebook;

1.1.2 Standard Notebook;

1.1.3 Large Notebook;

1.1.4 Ruggedized Notebook;

1.1.5 Ruggedized Tablet

Options:

o Upgrade hard drive - 2x the proposed item

Regarding the “upgrade hard drive” (under “options”) requirement: Please confirm that this requirement is for double the base storage amount quoted (ex. 160GB base, 320GB option), as opposed to needing 2 physical drives installed.

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

106 FirstSource III - RFP_Attachment 8 ITVAR Pricing Schedule Salient Characteristics and Labor Category Descriptions.pdf

1.1 Notebook/Portable Workstations

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient

1.1.4 Ruggedized Notebook;

1.1.5 Ruggedized Tablet

• PC card type II x 1 and SD card (SDHC)

Regarding the “PC card Type-II and SD card” requirement: Please consider removing the Type-II requirement entirely, as it’s considered a legacy card, or change requirement to read “Type-II OR SD card."

Given that integrated SD card readers is also uncommon with these form factors, please allow for external SD card readers to meet this requirement.

107 FirstSource III - RFP_Attachment 8 ITVAR Pricing Schedule Salient Characteristics and Labor Category Descriptions.pdf

1.1 Notebook/Portable Workstations

1.1.1 Highly Portable Notebook

• Minimum 4 GB, 800 MHz DDR2 or DDR3 with minimum 1 DIMM slot available and accessible from the bottom of the laptop

Regarding the “minimum 1 DIMM slot available” requirement: we recommend allowing for systems with soldered memory (i.e. not replaceable nor expandable), to increase competition.

For example; the Latitude 9510 2-in-1 example listed in 4b.+FirstSource+III+- +DRAFT+Sample+Pricing+Model_ITVAR+2.25.21 has integrated memory that cannot be replaced nor upgraded.

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient

108 FirstSource III - RFP_Attachment 8 ITVAR Pricing Schedule Salient Characteristics and Labor Category Descriptions.pdf

1.1 Notebook/Portable Workstations

1.1.1 Highly Portable Notebook

• Integrated NIC support 100/1000 MB/s

Regarding the “integrated NIC support” requirement:

we recommend allowing for external Ethernet adapters as many manufacturers are opting to not include an integrated Ethernet port in their newer devices, in an effort to keep their respective notebook chassis as thin and light as possible. Because this notebook category is meant to be “highly portable”, one could reason that the intent for these devices is to not have them tethered to a wired Internet connection for their typical use.

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

109 FirstSource III - RFP_Attachment 8 ITVAR Pricing Schedule Salient Characteristics and Labor Category Descriptions.pdf

1.1 Notebook/Portable Workstations

1.1.4 Ruggedized Notebook

• High-definition audio compliant w/ integrated speakers and volume controls

Please define the “high-definition audio compliant” requirement with an industry standard or technology.

Will a ruggedized notebook that has either Intel HD Audio or Universal Audio Architecture (UAA) be considered compliant?

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient

110 FirstSource III - RFP_Attachment 8 ITVAR Pricing

Descriptions.pdf

1.1 Notebook/Portable Workstations

1.1.4 Ruggedized Notebook

General question

We recommend setting a minimum display size requirement of 13 inches.

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

111 FirstSource III - RFP_Attachment 8 ITVAR Pricing Schedule Salient Characteristics and Labor Category Descriptions.pdf

1.1 Notebook/Portable Workstations

1.1.5 Ruggedized Tablet

• Electrostatic touchpad with circular scrolling

Regarding the “electrostatic touchpad with circular scrolling” requirement: The “circular scrolling” is a manufacturer-specific spec for devices that have long been considered end-of-life.

Additionally, an integrated touchpad (and keyboard) would make this no longer technically a tablet device, but rather a “convertible laptop” or “2-in-1”. Is it the DHS’s intent to require a tablet (lacking an integrated physical keyboard), or rather a 2-in-1 device?

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

112 FirstSource III - RFP_Attachment 8 ITVAR Pricing Schedule Salient Characteristics and Labor Category Descriptions.pdf

1.1 Notebook/Portable Workstations

1.1.5 Ruggedized Tablet

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient

• 56K Modem

Regarding the “56K Modem” requirement: An integrated 56K modem is now considered a legacy port.

We recommend its removal. Additionally, because this is a tablet, one could reason that the intent for these devices is to not have them tethered to a wired Internet connection for their typical use.

113 FirstSource III - RFP_Attachment 8 ITVAR Pricing Schedule Salient Characteristics and Labor Category Descriptions.pdf

1.1 Notebook/Portable Workstations

1.1.5 Ruggedized Tablet

• External Video interface (either HDMI/VDI [sic] or

VGA)

Regarding the “external video interface” requirement:

Will a tablet with an integrated mini HDMI port or USB-C port (with DisplayPort via USB-C) be considered acceptable?

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

114 FirstSource III - RFP_Attachment 8 ITVAR Pricing Schedule Salient Characteristics and Labor Category Descriptions.pdf

1.1 Notebook/Portable Workstations

1.1.5 Ruggedized Tablet

• 83 key with dedicated Windows® key

Regarding the “83 key” requirement: is it the DHS's intent to require a ruggedized tablet (with detachable keyboard) or a ruggedized 2-in-1 laptop?

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient

115 FirstSource III - RFP_Attachment 8 ITVAR Pricing

Descriptions.pdf

1.1 Notebook/Portable Workstations

1.1.5 Ruggedized Tablet

• 6 backlit tablet buttons (5 user-definable)

Regarding the “5 user-definable (of 6) backlit tablet buttons” requirement: Recommend lowering requirement to “2 or more” user-definable buttons, to increase competition.

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

116 FirstSource III - RFP_Attachment 8 ITVAR Pricing Schedule Salient Characteristics and Labor Category Descriptions.pdf

1.1 Notebook/Portable Workstations

1.1.5 Ruggedized Tablet

General question

We recommend setting a minimum display size requirement at 10 inches.

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

117 FirstSource III - RFP_Attachment 8 ITVAR Pricing Schedule Salient Characteristics and Labor Category Descriptions.pdf

1.1 Notebook/Portable Workstations

1.1.6 Notebook Options

• Desktop Replacement Bundle o Notebook Docking station with port replicator (PS/2 port) o PS/2 Keyboard

Regarding the “desktop replacement bundle” requirement: Please reconsider the PS/2 requirements for both the notebook docking station and the keyboard. Given that PS/2 is considered a legacy port for notebooks, USB ports (and peripherals) are much more appropriate for these requirements. Most docking stations come with more than 2 USB ports to accommodate USB wired keyboards and mice.

118 FirstSource III - RFP_Attachment 8 ITVAR Pricing Schedule Salient Characteristics and Labor Category Descriptions.pdf

1.1 Notebook/Portable Workstations

1.1.6 Notebook Options

• Desktop Replacement Bundle o Notebook monitor stand to work with port replicator

Please expand on the requirement: “Notebook monitor stand to work with port replicator.

1) Is this a stand that accommodates both a notebook and an external monitor?

2) Is the docking station expected to also be attached to this stand?

3) Is this a notebook riser?

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

119 FirstSource III - RFP_Attachment 8 ITVAR Pricing Schedule Salient Characteristics and Labor Category Descriptions.pdf

2.1 Stand-alone Workstations

2.1.1 Advanced Technical Stand-alone Workstation

• At least 4GB (DDR3) SDRAM 1333MHz or faster o Supports at least two quad core (8 CPUs) processor o Processor running at 3.2 GHz or better / quad core o 1000 MHz or faster front side bus

There is no workstation that can offer 8 processors, each on their own die, in one configuration. Our market survey shows workstations can only offer up to two processors. Therefore, we assume that the requirement is for a system with 8-core single processor that has 3.2GHz speed regardless of Intel family - being Intel Core/Pentium/Celeron. Please confirm.

120 FirstSource III - RFP_Attachment 8 ITVAR Pricing Schedule Salient Characteristics and Labor Category Descriptions.pdf

2.1 Stand-alone Workstations

2.1.2 Super-User Stand-alone Workstation

• At least 4GB (DDR3) SDRAM 1333MHz or faster o Supports at least two dual core or one quad core (4 CPUs) processor(s) o Processor(s) running at 3.0 GHz or better / dual core or quad core o 1000 MHz or faster front side bus

There is no workstation that can offer 4 processors in one configuration. Our market survey shows OEMs can only offer up to two processors in this class. We assume that the requirement is for a system with 4-core single processor that has 3.0GHz speed regardless of Intel family - being Intel Core/Pentium/Celeron. Please confirm.

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient Characteristics and Labor Category

Descriptions

121 FirstSource III - RFP_Attachment 8 ITVAR Pricing

Descriptions.pdf

2.1 Stand-alone Workstations

2.1.3 Mission Stand-alone Workstation

• At least 4GB (DDR3) SDRAM 1333MHz or faster o Supports at least one dual core (2 CPUs) processor

Please see revised Attachment 8, Salient o Processor running at 2.66 GHz or better / dual core o 1000 MHz or faster…