Mobile Computer Project Blue Oceans QandA Matrix.xlsx
XLSX spreadsheet 21 KB Posted
- Solicitation number
- FA231825QBXXX
- Issued by
-
Department of the Air Force
About this file
This document contains a Question and Answer (Q&A) matrix related to a Request for Information (RFI) for a federal contract opportunity issued by the United States Air Force (USAF) for the "MISSION PLANNING MOBILE COMPUTER PROCUREMENT (PROJECT: BLUE OCEANS)". The key details are:
The USAF is seeking to purchase between 652 and 1,861 ruggedized, 2-in-1 tablet computers with docking stations for use in airborne environments. The devices must meet stringent environmental requirements per MIL-STD-810, including rapid decompression, explosive atmosphere testing, and temperature extremes. The government is reviewing requirements for display size, memory capacity, and BIOS/UEFI configurations. Subcontracting and third-party funding are allowed, and the solicitation is anticipated to be issued in late 2024. The Q&A matrix provides clarification on technical specifications, power requirements, and testing procedures. Overall, the government is seeking a complete, stable device capable of supporting critical USAF mission planning operations.
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Other files
| File | Type | Posted |
|---|---|---|
| Mobile Computer RFI AFLCMC HBM.pdf | ||
| Attachment 1 - Statement of Work (SOW).pdf | ||
| Attachment 2 - Clarifying Questionnaire.xlsx | XLSX spreadsheet | |
| RFI Letter AFLCMC HBM Mobile Computer Signed.pdf |
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Sheet1
| Request for Information Reference | Question | Government Answer | |
| 1 | SOW Table 1A, Minimum Technical and Functional Specifications - Display & Memory | Memory vs Display Size: The Government is requesting a 10.1" display model with memory expansion capacities only available in larger display models. The choices are mutually exclusive: Display vs Max Configurable Memory. Would the government accept a 10.1" display model with Max Memory of 32GB? | The Government is currently reviewing the functional requirements associated with this procurement and will take this question under advisement. Currently, the Department of Defense (DoD) mandates a minimum of 32GB of memory for approved systems. However, the Government is actively reviewing the potential need to increase this specification beyond 32GB. The Government has not yet determined whether larger displays would be feasible. |
| 2 | SOW Table 1A, Minimum Technical and Functional Specifications - Display & Memory | Memory vs Display Size: The Government is requesting a 10.1" display model with memory expansion capacities only available in larger display models. The choices are mutually exclusive: Display vs Max Configurable Memory. Would the government accept a 13” display model with Max Memory of 128GB? | The Government is currently reviewing the functional requirements associated with this procurement and will take this question under advisement. Currently, the DoD mandates a minimum of 32GB of memory for approved systems. However, the Government is actively reviewing the potential need to increase this specification beyond 32GB. The Government has not yet determined whether larger displays would be feasible. |
| 3 | SOW Table 2, Item B Specifications, DC to DC Converter | Could you please expand and explain the anticipated solution for the 28V DC to DC converter solution? | The primary objective of the DC to DC converter is to provide safe and reliable power for "Item-A" when it is connected to the Aircrew Eye/Respiratory Protection System (AERPS) outlet. The AERPS outlet features a three-pin Cannon plug, with Pin A supplying 28 VDC. The other two pins are tied to ground. This 28 VDC needs to be converted to a suitable voltage for "Item-A" to ensure optimal performance and compatibility. |
The DC to DC converter must accept the 28 VDC input from the AERPS outlet and convert it to the appropriate voltage required by "Item-A." This conversion process is crucial for delivering safe and efficient power to "Item-A." Typically, the DC to DC converter is designed as a compact, box-style unit, which facilitates easy installation in confined spaces, efficient heat dissipation, and protection of internal components.
| 4 | SOW Table 1A, Minimum Technical and Functional Specifications | The "Integrated Options" section contains many mutually-exclusive options that could not have been found in a single unit. In order to make a recommendation, we need confirmation of exactly which integrated options are needed. As a reminder, we can no longer provide Windows 10. | The specifications provided for review clearly state the requirement for a "Licensed, installed, and activated Microsoft Windows 11 OS or better." Additionally, there is a requirement for bidders to supply drivers for both Windows 10 and Windows 11. To clarify, the requirement for Windows 10 drivers will be specified as "if available only." This means that while Windows 11 drivers are mandatory, Windows 10 drivers should only be included if they are accessible. The specifications outlined in the Statement of Work (SOW) accompanying this Request for Information (RFI) bear a strong resemblance to those used in a previous procurement cycle conducted in 2019/2020. The primary differences are minor enhancements to CPU performance and the inclusion of a Thunderbolt port. The Air Force's objective is to maintain the existing functionality while incorporating the Thunderbolt port, thereby ensuring continuity and compatibility with current systems and processes. | ||
| 5 | SOW Table 1A, Minimum Technical and Functional Specifications - Display | Would you be willing to accept a quote with an 11 inch screen if it meets all of the other requirements? | The Government is currently reviewing the functional requirements associated with this procurement and will take this question under advisement. The Government has not yet determined whether larger displays would be feasible. | ||
| 6 | Request for Information Letter | Is subcontracting allowed for this opportunity? | Should a solicitation be issued, the Government is currently anticipating that subcontracting will be allowed for this procurement. | ||
| 7 | Request for Information Letter | Is third-party funding permitted for this opportunity? | Should a solicitation be issued, the Government is currently anticipating that third-party funding will be allowed for this procurement; however, contractors are reminded that they are responsible for ensuring that all requirements of FAR Subpart 32.8 are followed. | ||
| 8 | Request for Information Letter | What is the anticipated future RFQ release date? | Should a solicitation be issued, the Government is currently anticipating that the solicitation would be issued in late fall 2024. | ||
| 9 | SOW, Section 5.1, Packaging Requirements | Has the Government considered that unexpected extended lab lead times and additional costs of required testing could result in a slight impact to cost per unit and delay of certifications? | The Government recognizes the impact of testing on increased costs and potential delays in item delivery. The Government will take this into consideration when developing a solicitation for this procurement, should a solicitation be issued. | ||
| 10 | SOW | I have not seen operating temp called out on the documents. Do you know what operating temp this unit needs to be? | Current specifications require a device capable of operating within the temperatures associated MIL-STD 810. MIL-STD-810 is a series of test methods developed by the US military to ensure that military equipment can withstand environmental stressors. The specific requirements for freeze/thaw, high/low temperature, and temperature shock testing can vary depending on the specific equipment and testing method used. However, some common temperature ranges for these tests include: • Freeze/Thaw: Equipment is typically tested at temperatures ranging from -65°F (-54°C) to 160°F (71°C); • High/Low Temperature: Equipment is typically tested at temperatures ranging from -65°F (-54°C) to 160°F (71°C) for high temperature testing and from -65°F (-54°C) to 300°F (149°C) for low temperature testing; • | Temperature Shock: Equipment is typically tested by subjecting it to rapid changes in temperature, such as moving it from a freezer at -65°F (-54°C) to an oven at 200°F (93°C)., freeze/thaw, high/low temperature, temperature shock. The aircraft environment the USAF intends to utilize these devices within is usually maintained between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. | |
| 11 | SOW Table 1A, Minimum Technical and Functional Specifications - Rugged (Environmetal) | On the specs you called out for "Rapid Decompression and Explosive Atmosphere", would you be able to explain a bit further what did you mean by that ? Is there any specific approvals for this? | MIL-STD-810 is a series of test methods developed by the US military to ensure that military equipment can withstand environmental stressors. Two of the test methods included in MIL-STD-810 are rapid decompression and explosive atmosphere tests. Here's a brief explanation of each: Rapid Decompression Test: This test is designed to evaluate the ability of equipment to withstand rapid changes in air pressure, which can occur during flight or in other high-altitude environments. The test involves placing the equipment in a chamber and rapidly reducing the air pressure to simulate the conditions of a rapid decompression event. The equipment is then evaluated for any damage or malfunction caused by the rapid change in pressure. Explosive Atmosphere Test: This test is designed to evaluate the ability of equipment to withstand the effects of an explosion or fire in an enclosed space. The test involves placing the equipment in a chamber and introducing an explosive or flammable atmosphere. The equipment is then evaluated for any damage or malfunction caused by the explosion or fire. All MIL-STD Testing shall occur in a certified laboratory. | ||
| 12 | SOW Table 1A, Minimum Technical and Functional Specifications - BIOS / UEFI | ||||
| Requirements | On the BIOS Setting you called out "UEFI without Compatibility Support Mode (CSM): Enabled" is this a deal breaker? | Additional investigation by the Government will be needed. At this time, it is assumed that if CSM can be disabled in the BIOS that this would be acceptable; however, additional testing by the Government would be required to provide an accurate response to this question. | |||
| 13 | SOW Table 1A, Minimum Technical and Functional Specifications - Memory | Our solution have 32GB ram but no option to upgrade at the moment. If you want to swap the Ram for higher capacity, you can so replacing the 32GB with the higher capacity but we can not guarantee any heating issues. Let me know if this is a deal breaker. | The Government’s objective is to acquire a complete stable device capable of supporting critical operations. Overheating and other similar systems issues would be unacceptable. | ||
| 14 | SOW Table 1A, Minimum Technical and Functional Specifications - Aircraft Power | You called out for "AIRCRAFT POWER:Certified MIL-STD-704F". Based on our research this requires 400 Hz but our tablets are designed to be 50/60 Hz. Do you think this is a deal breaker?” | Aircraft will provide power to this device utilizing the 28VDC DC Converter (Item-B) or using a 60hz, 110VAC outlet within the aircraft. |
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