9280-26-R-IFBD-00056

The University of Southern Mississippi is requesting sealed bids for a wideband high-resolution echo sounder (WBES) system, with bids due July 9, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. Central Time at Bond Hall, Room 214, in Hattiesburg.

The scope comprises a complete WBES system with two split-beam sonar transducers (high frequency and lower frequency), a system controller with acquisition and data processing software, and associated components for deployment on a USM survey vessel. The system will support bottom sediment mapping, fish habitat classification, target detection and localization, and backscattering analysis. Delivery is to the Marine Research Center in Gulfport, Mississippi, with the vendor responsible for all transportation costs.

The vendor must provide a minimum one-year hardware and software warranty from acceptance (longer periods preferred) and serve as the sole point of contact for warranty issues. Comprehensive training is required at the Gulfport facility, covering operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, system integration, mission planning, and basic data analysis. Documentation deliverables include operations and maintenance manuals, theory of operation, operating procedures, interfacing instructions, troubleshooting and maintenance procedures, parts breakout drawings, and all sensor documentation.

Bidders must submit one signed original, one signed copy, and a virus-free electronic copy on a thumb drive. Hand delivery, USPS mail, Federal Express, or UPS delivery are acceptable. The University reserves the right to award on an all-or-none or line-by-line basis. Prices quoted must be firm for the contract term. Payment terms are 2% discount if paid within ten days or net within 45 days, as required by Mississippi law.

Vendors must demonstrate proof of performance through references showing successful WBES system operation within the last three years and provide a complete list with costs of optional spare parts. The bid number is 26-50 and the RFx number is 3160008121.