Microscope Imaging System

The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services is soliciting sealed bids under ITB DPI 26 27 66 for one compound microscope imaging system to support high-resolution viewing and analysis of agricultural pests, with written questions due November 5, 2026 and sealed bids due November 16, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time. Florida-based business vendors are entitled to a preference over out-of-state vendors, and vendors with principal places of business outside Florida must submit a written attorney's opinion regarding preferences granted by their state or face disqualification.

The system must include a Zeiss Axioscope 7 microscope stand with motorized capabilities, binocular ergophototube, objectives from 10x to 100x, encoded reflector sliders, DIC and phase-contrast condenser modules, an Axiocam 807 color camera, ZEN 3.14 imaging software with motorized acquisition toolkit, Helicon EDF extended-depth-of-field software, and a compatible desktop imaging workstation. Appendix I lists twenty-nine mandatory components that must meet or exceed the stated minimums. The specification names Zeiss models by part, and the ITB calls for XYZ stacking and stitching for specimens under 100 micrometers. The firm fixed unit price must cover all equipment, software, delivery, on-site installation, configuration, calibration, verification, and on-site training for FDACS personnel. A manufacturer's warranty of at least 365 calendar days from acceptance is required.

Delivery must be completed by June 30, 2027, to the Division of Plant Industry in Gainesville, Florida. The award goes to the responsive and responsible vendor with the lowest Grand Total Price, and the Department reserves the right to make a single award or no award. The recommended award will post on the Vendor Information Portal on a date to be determined. The solicitation is funded with state funds and carries a one percent MyFloridaMarketPlace transaction fee. Vendors must register in MyFloridaMarketPlace using the specified UNSPSC codes and certify debarment and suspension status, forced labor compliance, drug-free workplace program status, Israel boycott compliance, and E-Verify registration. Bids open publicly November 17, 2026 at 9:30 a.m., and protests follow Florida Statutes Section 120.57(3).