Brand Name Justification - Consolidated Cameras-KO reviewed 2-20-26_Redacted.pdf

10 U.S.C. 3204(a)(5), Authorized or required by statute.

10 U.S.C. 3204(a)(6), National Security.

10 U.S.C. 3204(a)(7), Public Interest.

5. Rationale Justifying Use of Cited Authority. The acquisition is being conducted under the procedures of FAR 13.106-1(b)(1)(1) – Soliciting from a single source i.e., brand-name. The justification rationale for restricting competition is: the equipment is manufactured by, and proprietary to, Nikon, Inc. and Manfrotto. NCIS has standardized its equipment throughout the agency to ensure all cameras, lenses, scanners, tripods, and training are compatible. Therefore, only Nikon cameras and Manfrotto tripods can be procured, as all NCIS agents are trained on that specific equipment. Switching to any other brand would require agency-wide efforts to re-equip and re-educate agents. Currently, agents go through a special course that is specifically designed for the equipment that is fielded to agents, one of which is the Nikon camera. Procuring a different brand of camera would also require re-vamping the existing training course for agents in order to train them on a different brand of camera and its accessories.

Additionally, current lenses and software are not be compatible with other brands of cameras, which would require the agency to procure additional components and accessories. Also, agents change their duty locations every three years and the use of non-uniform camera models will be a hindrance on cross team missions due to skill-vacuum and lack of interoperability. As such, procuring more Nikon cameras is the only cost-efficient solution for the agency.

6. Specific characteristics of the supplies or services that limit the availability to this/these source(s), i.e., unique features, form-fit-function, etc. State why the requested material or service represents the minimum requirement(s) of the Government. Describe in detail why only this/these suggested source(s) can furnish the requirement(s) to the exclusion of other sources.

When the Office of Forensic Support (OFS) began the search for Nikon camera system to outfit the Forensic Associates and Forensic Consultants under development, it became apparent that the traditional Digital Single Lens Reflex (DSLR) camera system was being replaced by the new mirrorless camera system. Mirrorless refers to the fact that light travels directly through the camera from lens to viewfinder without being reflected within the camera by a mirror. This phenomenon was occurring regardless of which brand of camera one has (Canon/Fujifilm/Nikon). Adjusting to this change necessitates a conversion not only in camera body but also in camera lens, requiring a new type of lens or at least, use of an adapter ring. Once NCIS was aware of the forthcoming transition required from traditional DSLR camera to a mirrorless system, OFS knew the need to drive the change within the Agency, beginning with OFS and Major Case Response Team (MCRT).

It is critical to ensure the Agency uses the Nikon camera system, which is familiar to agency personnel from the training academy through senior personnel. The new Nikon mirrorless cameras are similar in functionality to the traditional cameras. This ensures interoperability and a smooth transition despite the pace of the Agency’s conversion of all its cameras.

The Manfrotto GT XPRO Tripod Kit allows the mirrorless camera to be gripped properly when it is mounted on it. The tripod allows us to extend the boom or position the camera sideways or upside down (we do this regularly) when the mirrorless camera is mounted. This part of the requirement is essential.

7. Determination of fair and reasonable pricing.

Pricing will be reviewed prior to award based on price analysis techniques available per FAR 13.106(a).

13. CONTRACTING OFFICER CERTIFICATION/APPROVAL. I certify that this the justification is accurate and complete to the best of my knowledge and belief.