Rack mounted computer products (UW-MAD)[18-5882]

The University of Wisconsin-Madison is conducting a competitive procurement for rack-mounted computer products through Bid No. 18-5882, seeking comprehensive server and storage equipment for university departments. The solicitation covers a diverse range of computer hardware, including a 60-bay JBOD storage array, servers with Intel processors, GPU compute servers with dual GeForce GTX 1080 Ti graphics cards, and specialized 1U chassis with advanced networking capabilities. Bidders must demonstrate three years of experience providing computer hardware, maintain manufacturer-trained personnel, and offer in-store or depot repair services with parts availability within two days. The procurement requires all equipment to include a minimum one-year manufacturer's standard warranty. Key dates include a January 31, 2018 deadline for written questions and a February 16, 2018 bid submission deadline at 2:00 p.m. Central Standard Time. Award will be determined based on the lowest extended net total bid that is deemed in the best interest of the University, with bid prices and terms to remain firm for sixty days from the bid opening date.

The procurement includes supplier diversity preferences for certified Minority Business Enterprises (MBE) and Disabled Veteran-Owned Businesses (DVB) submitting qualified bids within five percent of the lowest bid. Contractors must pass criminal background checks and comply with Wisconsin tax certification requirements, federal debarment standards, and maintain a minimum of $1,000,000 in commercial liability and automobile insurance coverage. The University does not guarantee specific purchase quantities and will place orders on an as-needed basis. Alternative manufacturers may be considered at the University's discretion, and equal or better components can be substituted for end-of-life items. While no specific budget range was disclosed, the procurement is structured to leverage the entire university's purchasing volume. Bidders are required to provide both quoted costs and estimated UW usage information, and must certify they are not debarred or suspended from federal contracts. Payment terms are set at Net 30 days following University acceptance of the delivered equipment.