Pipette Calibration System

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) has issued an Invitation for Bids (IFB) No. HHS0015910 for a Pipette Calibration System, covering jurisdictions in Travis County and Austin City. The procurement seeks a highly specialized scientific instrument capable of providing high-accuracy calibration for extremely low volume measurements (100 nL), with specific requirements including ease of use, broad dynamic range, unique calculation algorithms, and the ability to perform 10-data-point calibration in under 3 minutes. The system must include a built-in scanner for pipette history and reagent identification, complete documentation and data management with audit trail compliance to 21 CFR Part 11, and calibration method compliance to ISO 8655-7. Key procurement dates include March 3, 2025, for submitted questions, March 7, 2025, for question responses, and March 12, 2025, at 10:30 AM Central Time for bid submissions. The contract anticipates a start date of March 13, 2025, with the award being made to the bidder providing the best value to the State of Texas, considering price, specification compliance, and delivery requirements.

The solicitation does not explicitly outline specific set-aside designations for disadvantaged enterprises, but respondents must complete a comprehensive 61-point affirmation form addressing various compliance requirements, including certifications related to state preferences and potential exclusions. The historical spend for similar goods and services was $28,980 for the period September 2024 through August 2025, though this represents a guideline rather than a guaranteed quantity. HHSC reserves the right to make single or multiple awards, with pricing required to be firm and fixed for the contract term and subject to potential adjustments correlated with Bureau of Labor Statistics indices. The contract includes an option to extend for up to one additional year beyond the initial term, with delivery expected within 14 days after order receipt. Contractors must provide on-site installation, user training, and include an extended warranty with one instrument recertification and preventive maintenance service to be performed at Advanced Instruments facility in Westbrook, Maine.