Notice of Intent: Coherent's Axon 920-2 TPC Fixed-Wavelength Laser

The National Institute on Drug Abuse Office of Acquisition hereby gives notice of its intent to issue a Purchase Order on a sole source basis to Coherent Inc, 40984 Concept Drive Plymouth, MI 48170, pursuant to FAR 13.106-1(b), soliciting from a single source. The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code is 334516 – Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing, with a size standard of 1,000 employees. The Government anticipates the award of a Firm Fixed-Price (FFP) Purchase Order for this requirement.

Background/Purpose: The Section on Critical Brain Dynamics requires a fixed-wavelength laser for its 2-photon Mesoscope, which is instrumental in extending 2-photon imaging to whole-brain studies in transgenic mice and forming a critical link between human fMRI research and inter-areal neuronal dynamics studies. Currently, the mesoscope's performance is highly sensitive to temperature and humidity fluctuations due to its complex laser pulse compression mechanism. By replacing the existing laser and pulse compression unit with a fixed-wavelength laser featuring built-in pre-compression, we can enhance the mesoscope's stability.

Generic Name of Product: fixed-wavelength laser 

Quantity: 

• One (1) AXON 920-2 TPC

Salient characteristics:

• Center Wavelength 920 nm (+/- 2nm)
• Average power ≥2.5W after modulator and dispersion precompensation
• 80 MHz Repetition rate
• Small footprint
• TEM 00 beam profile
• Adjustable high contrast ratio (1000:1) modulation (AOM; Max:Min power)
• Adjustable dispersion pre-compensation (GDD) up to -30,000 fs2
• Pulse duration <150 fs (sech2 pulse shape).

Other Considerations: 

• A comprehensive service warranty is desired, with the ability to dispatch US-based technicians for service quickly 
• The laser must be supportable by Thorolabs Inc. to allow for integration into the multiphoton mesoscope. 
• Delivery Date: 6 months after the award 

Justification: The determination by the Government to award a contract without providing for full and open competition is based upon the market research conducted. Specifically, Coherent is the only source that could meet NIMH's specific requirements for the fixed wavelength laser.

Conclusion: 
This notice of intent is not a request for competitive quotes. Interested persons may disclose their interest and capability to meet the requirement or submit a quote to the Contracting Specialist, JW Terry, at jw.terry@nih.gov. Information received in response to this notice will be considered solely to determine whether to conduct a competitive procurement. Any response to this notice must show clear and convincing evidence that competition would benefit the Government. In doing so, interested sources must submit technical capabilities and other information demonstrating their ability to meet the Government's needs. Currently, no solicitation document is available, and telephone requests will not be honored. No contract will be awarded based on quotes received in response to this notice. All responses must be received by the closing date and time of this announcement and must reference the solicitation number.