Notice of Intent to Sole Source-IR Microscope extended warranty

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) intends to award a sole-source contract to DRS Daylight Solutions of San Diego, California, for an extended warranty on an IR Microscope Super Resolution Microscope system (model Spero-QT-STD S/N 5185). This procurement supports NIST's Biosystems and Biomaterials Division project to develop new mid-infrared microscopy methods for biological samples, which directly advances NIST's mission to provide measurement science capabilities for biomolecular structure analysis and biopharmaceutical product stability assessment. The sole-source justification is based on FAR 6.302-1, as DRS Daylight Solutions is the original equipment manufacturer and the only authorized entity capable of providing extended warranty services for this specialized quantum cascade laser-based microscope system. DRS Daylight Solutions has confirmed they are the exclusive provider for extended warranty services with no third-party vendor alternatives available. Interested parties have until August 23, 2025, to submit their capabilities and qualifications to meet the agency's requirements, with inquiries directed to Contracting Officer Don Graham at donald.graham@nist.gov.

This procurement does not utilize any set-aside designations and represents a continuation of the existing relationship between NIST and DRS Daylight Solutions as the original equipment manufacturer. The contract specifically targets the maintenance and support of a single microscope unit already in NIST's possession, indicating this is a follow-on warranty extension rather than new equipment acquisition. The opportunity falls under NAICS code 811210 for Electronic and Precision Equipment Repair and Maintenance and PSC code R425 for Support-Professional: Engineering/Technical services. No award values, budget ranges, or specific warranty duration periods are disclosed in this pre-solicitation notice. The specialized nature of the quantum cascade laser technology and the manufacturer's exclusive authorization for warranty services effectively limits competition to the incumbent contractor.