Zeiss Microscopy Camera Axiocam 820, and accessories

The National Institute of Standards and Technology seeks procurement of a Zeiss Microscopy Camera Axiocam 820 Color and five accessories, with proposals due September 11, 2026. The procurement is a 100% total small business set-aside conducted as a Request for Quote under the Revolutionary FAR Overhaul.

Place of performance is NIST's Gaithersburg, Maryland facility (Building 301, 100 Bureau Drive). The camera must meet minimum technical specifications including an 8-bit depth, 20-megapixel backside-illuminated CMOS sensor, 1-inch sensor size, and compatibility with Zeiss ZEN 3.6 software and higher. NIST's justification for brand-name specification states that its existing ZEISS Axio Imager.Z1m microscope requires ZEISS-brand cameras for automated imaging routines within ZEN software, and no substitute brand can meet the specified requirements for high-resolution biological fluorescence imaging. The accessories include a camera adapter, illuminator microLED 3, G diaphragm slider with luminous field, stop slider with centerable aperture stop, and G filter wheel 2x discrete motor with ACR.

One unit is being procured. Delivery and installation must occur within 90 days of award. The contractor must provide a one-year warranty covering all parts, labor, and travel, commencing upon successful completion of delivery, installation, training, and demonstration. NAICS code is 334516 with a small business size standard of 1,000 employees. Evaluation weighs technical acceptability and price, with award to the responsible quoter offering the lowest price for a technically acceptable quotation. Questions should be directed to erik.fryclund@nist.gov.