6640--Brand Name Or Equal, CXK53 Microscope with specialized components and supporting devices

The Department of Veterans Affairs Veterans Health Administration Veterans Integrated Service Network 9 is seeking to procure an Olympus CKX53 Microscope or equivalent with specialized components and supporting devices for TVHS Research and Development at Vanderbilt University Medical Research Building IV. The solicitation encompasses 17 line items including the microscope frame, objectives, fluorescence system, camera, and software, with extensive technical requirements mandating precise optical, mechanical, and functional characteristics such as universal infinity-corrected system, LED illumination, phase contrast capabilities, and specific performance metrics. The procurement is structured as a Request for Quote under FAR subpart 12.6 streamlined procedures for commercial products and services, with evaluation based on comparative assessment of submitted quotes meeting the rigorous technical specifications. Questions were accepted until July 30, 2025, at 9:00 AM EST, and responses are due by August 7, 2025, at 4:00 PM EST, with all communications required via email to jonathan.headrick@va.gov. The contract requires delivery within 60 days of order receipt and includes a 5-year warranty on mechanics and optics, along with compatibility with cellSENS software and specific fluorescence capabilities.

This procurement is designated as full and open competition with no set-aside provisions, classified under NAICS code 333310 with a small business size standard of 1,000 employees. No incumbent contractors or potential award values are specified in the solicitation documents, with pricing to be determined through the competitive quote evaluation process. The procurement involves a single, comprehensive microscope system rather than multiple units, emphasizing the specialized nature of the research equipment required. Performance will occur at Vanderbilt University Medical Research Building IV, located at 2213 Garland Ave, Nashville, TN 37232, supporting the research activities of TVHS Research and Development. The solicitation has undergone two amendments, primarily extending deadlines and clarifying that "supporting devices" refers to the complete line item table detailed in the original solicitation attachment.