6640--678-LEICA HISTOCORE LIGHTNING S SLIDE PRINTER OR EQUAL
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), specifically VISN 22, is conducting a Sources Sought/Request for Information (RFI) to identify potential sources for a Leica HistoCore Lightning S Slide Printer or equivalent. This equipment is needed by the VA Tucson Healthcare System's BBB Research Service to enhance histology workflow with an automated slide labeling system. Responses are due May 19, 2026.
Scope of Work
The VA requires a fast, durable, and automated UV-based slide labeling system. Key functional requirements include:
- Handling histological glass slides from multiple manufacturers.
- Dual channel loading, operating in on-demand and batch print modes up to 15 slides/min.
- Reliable operation with minimal operator intervention.
- Use of labels resistant to heat, solvents, and standard histological stains (non-adhesive/non-thermal transfer).
- Minimum print resolution of 2,500 DPI with 2D barcode printing capability.
- A 3-layer air filtration system.
- Laboratory Information System (LIS) compatibility and a user-friendly integrated touchscreen interface.
- The system must include all required accessories, components, consumables, configured touchscreen interface, pre-installed software, demonstrated LIS connectivity, and complete documentation.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Request for Information (RFI)
- Anticipated Contract Type: Firm-fixed price, one-year contract (if a solicitation is issued).
- NAICS Code: 334516 (Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing) with a 1,000-employee size standard.
- Response Due: May 19, 2026, 12:00 PM PT.
- Published: May 12, 2026.
- Place of Performance: VA Tucson Healthcare System, 3601 South 6th Ave., Tucson, AZ 85723.
Eligibility & Compliance
- Non-Manufacturer Rule (NMR): Applies per 13 CFR § 121.406.
- Buy American Act: FAR 52.225-1 (Buy American-Supplies) and FAR 52.225-2 (Buy American Certificate) apply.
Submission & Evaluation
This RFI is for information and planning purposes only and does not constitute a solicitation. Responses will be used to determine potential qualified sources, their socioeconomic status, and size classification to inform future acquisition decisions. Interested vendors should provide: Vendor name, address, telephone number, business size, socioeconomic category (e.g., SDVOSB, 8a, VOSB), UEI Number, FSS/GSA Contract Holder status (with contract number and dates if applicable), and Country of Origin. Submissions must be in writing via email to Jonathan.Ford1@va.gov. Telephone responses will not be accepted.
Additional Notes
This is not a request for competitive proposals, and a solicitation is not currently available. Any future solicitation will be announced separately. Responders are responsible for all associated costs.