12-T-0010 Brand Name.pdf

BRAND NAME JUSTIFICATION

FAR 13.106-1(b)

Solicitation Number: HQ0236-12-T-0010 Estimated Value: Under $150,000.00

I. Description of Requirement: The George C. Marshall European Center for Security Studies (GCMC) Visual Information Division (VID) has a requirement to replace several major routing and switching components used in the Audio/Visual Systems in Buildings 105 and 106 on the Sheridan Kaserne. These components are at the end of the established industry lifecycle.

II. Background: The conference facilities at the Marshall Center are unique and state of the art. Classes and presentations are conducted using computers, Power Point presentations, DVDs, digital media, and Video-teleconferencing via Tandberg 6000.

These are projected on 6 x 8 foot screens in the plenary hall and require theater level projection for quality, color depth, and clarity. This is accomplished using Projection Design F24 projectors. The current projectors are nearing the end of their expected life-cycle, however, the professional short-throw lenses required for rear projection are still functional, and will remain that way indefinitely due to no moving parts. These lenses are only compatible with Projection Design projectors; therefore, Projection Design F32 SX+ projectors must be procured as their replacement.

III. Justification for Brand Name (Why no other brand name will satisfy the requirement):

The current projection set-up requires calibrated distances and lenses designed specifically for the distance from the mirrors and screens involved for full screen projection. The existing lenses for these projectors represent approximately 25% of the cost of replacement of the entire system. By using the newer version of these projectors, the MC will realize a cost savings of approximately $40K by utilizing the existing lenses.

Procuring an “equal to” variant of these projectors will realize no cost savings, and in fact increase costs, as a new set of lenses would require procurement. Additional costs savings will also be realized as the existing mounts, mirrors and other required hardware, can also be used continuously in operation. Finally, programming of the Crestron Control System for the new projectors would be minimized because the communications protocols in this series of projectors is almost identical to their predecessor.

IV. Actions taken to preclude the necessity for future actions using the same brand name:

Due to current system configuration requirements, it is not feasible to remove the brand name restriction of Projection Design components at this time. For future procurements, a cost/benefit analysis will be completed to identify any potential to break out requirements to additional brands. However, it is imperative that system stipulations be met to ensure that the system remains fully operational.

V. Technical Certification:

I certify the supporting data, under my cognizance, which are included in the Brand Name Justification, are accurate and complete to the best of my knowledge and belief.

James M. Mitchell__ 04 April 2012__ Type Name Date

VI. Contracting Officer’s Certification:

I certify that this justification is accurate and complete to the best of my knowledge and belief. Based on this brand name justification, I have determined there is only one source reasonably available to satisfy this requirement. Further, I anticipate sufficient competition among authorized Projection Design vendors to ensure fair and reasonable prices.

Benjamin N. Hardy________ 04 April 2012__ Type Name Date Contracting Officer