Short-Wave Infrared (SWIR) Hyperspectral Imaging System, USDA, ARS, Madison, WI

The USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS) is soliciting quotations for a research-grade Short-Wave Infrared (SWIR) Hyperspectral Imaging System through Request for Quotation 1232SA26Q0437. The system will support high-throughput screening of barley malt samples for quality assessment, enabling rapid, non-destructive analysis of composition attributes including protein, moisture, and starch structure. Key technical specifications include a spectral range of 1000-2500 nm with a minimum of 245 spectral bands, F-number of 1.8, approximately 640 spatial pixels, 16-bit data depth, and a maximum frame rate of 120 fps. The system must be a benchtop or laboratory-scale pushbroom hyperspectral platform with integrated illumination and motion control compatibility, and all components must be manufactured in the USA with US-based customer service. Quotations will be evaluated using lowest price technically acceptable criteria, with offers due by April 14, 2026, at 2:00 PM ET, submitted via email to the contracting officer Shalunda Mix at shalunda.mix@usda.gov. Offerors must hold pricing firm for 60 calendar days and include technical documentation demonstrating compliance with specifications, estimated delivery date, and any explanations for non-compliance with requirements.

This procurement is designated as a Total Small Business Set-Aside under NAICS code 334516, with a small business size standard of 1,000 employees. The estimated quantity is one unit, with delivery required within 60 days after receipt of order to the USDA ARS Cereal Crops Research Unit located at 502 Walnut Street, Madison, Wisconsin 53726. No specific award value or budget range is stated in the solicitation documents. The system must integrate into the laboratory's existing Resonon Pika XC2 upright stand configuration and Spectron-based data acquisition workflows to minimize additional hardware integration requirements. All components must comply with NDAA section 848 and Executive Order 13981, containing no subcomponents from adversary countries, and standard 12-month warranties are acceptable.