Bosch_Brand_Name.doc

Justification for an Exception to Fair Opportunity

BRAND NAME JUSTIFICATION

10 U.S.C. 2304c(b)(2) as implemented in FAR 16.505(2)(i)(B) ASR Number:

I. Description of Requirement: The GCMC Visual Information Division (VID) has a requirement to procure equipment in support of the BOSCH DIGITAL CAMERA system in Building 106 of the George C. Marshall European Center for Security Studies.

II. Background: The conference facilities at the Marshall Center are unique and state-of-the-art. Classes, lectures and special events are conducted with simultaneous interpretation in up to four languages using the Bosch Digital Congress Network (DCN). Routings and control of both conference halls are conducted using the Crestron Control System, and all audio routings and distribution are handled by the SoundWeb Control System. Lectures and events are recorded via PAL DVCAM, VCRs and Avid Video Editing software in both analog and digital formats. In addition, video and audio in multiple languages can be sent to the base closed-circuit cable system via fiber optic connection. Classes and presentations are conducted using computers, Power Point presentations, DVDs, digital media, and Video-teleconferencing via Tandberg 6000. Redundancy and backup are provided using a variety of switchers and patch panels. Classes and lectures are mixed live to tape using the Avid Editing system using professional mixers, scan conveners for PC signals, and cameras controlled by the DCN. Audio and video routings are handled via Leitch and Komtech switchers and routers. The Bosch DCN cameras are used to record lectures and events via PAL DVCAM and Avid Video Editing systems, as well as provide live video to interpreters, viewing monitors, and other sources necessary to view and route varied camera angles. Camera control, zoom, and switching are accomplished using the Bosch Allegiant. Replacement of required components is necessary as they have surpassed their industry life-cycle and are no longer 100% operational or dependable.

The Bosch Digital Congress Interpretation System is a proprietary system, and only Bosch replacement cameras can be used with the existing system. This requirement for components will be competed among vendors authorized to supply Bosch brand equipment. Bosch brand equipment must be utilized to ensure continuity of customer operations and warranty support throughout the entire system. Additionally, our technicians have the required training to maintain, fix, and upgrade the overall system. No additional or new training or down time is necessary.

III. Justification for Exception to Fair Opportunity: Items peculiar to one manufacturer (Brand Name).

This is a brand name justification in support of FAR 16.505(4), Items Peculiar to One Manufacturer. Based on extensive market research it was determined that limited competition is available for this brand name equipment. The required Bosch equipment will be integrated into an existing infrastructure which is specifically tailored to support Bosch equipment and programming. No other brand of equipment and appliances are compatible with the existing Bosch technology and are therefore unsupported for integration into the existing infrastructure. Using another brand would require a complete re-procurement of the existing infrastructure and software which would pose an unacceptable level of risk to GCMC IT operations.

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

Market research indicates the product is available from multiple open market vendors that are authorized by Bosch to furnish the equipment and honor warranty coverage. Competing this requirement among these vendors through Fedbizopps as the Government point of entry (GPE) is anticipated to maximize the level of competition. This brand name justification will be provided with the solicitation in accordance with FAR 13.501(a)(1)(iv).

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.

Program Analyst

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 Bosch is the only brand name available to satisfy this requirement. Further, I anticipate sufficient competition among qualified Bosch sources to ensure fair and reasonable prices.

Contracting Officer

Date