Digital Microscope
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 Bureau of Engraving and Printing (Treasury) has issued a Request for Quote (RFQ) for a Digital Microscope. This opportunity seeks a research-grade digital microscope, including all sub-systems and major components, with the latest operating system and data analysis software. The microscope is required for collecting microscopic images, performing measurements, and analyzing dimensional and height information. This is a Total Small Business Set-Aside procurement. Quotes are due by March 10, 2026, at 2:00 PM ET.
Scope of Work
The requirement is for a research-grade digital microscope with high dynamic range imaging, real-time automatic focus, and automatic lighting optimization. Key specifications include:
- Illumination & Viewing: Reflected and transmitted light, supporting brightfield, darkfield, polarized light, and differential interference contrast (DIC) imaging.
- Camera: Must have 4K resolution capabilities.
- Optics/Objectives: Magnification range of 20x-5000x without switching lens hardware, with automatic magnification changes recognized by the computer.
- Stage: XY-automated stage (at least 100 mm x 100 mm range), motorized z-control for extended depth of field and 3D imaging, and the ability to rotate samples and tilt the microscope head (at least 60°).
- Computer: Windows 11 Pro with specific minimum requirements (Intel Core Ultra 7, 64GB RAM, 1TB HDD, 8GB graphics card, Network Card). Must function offline, with software upgrades via digital media only (no remote access).
- Software: Must include 2D analysis (measurements, particle testing), 3D image creation/viewing/measurements, automated task replication, automated XY stitching, and exportable data formats. Licenses for at least three users for offline viewing/analysis are required.
- Peripherals: Wired keyboard, mouse, and SmartCard reader.
- Calibration: NIST certified calibration scale.
- Maintenance: Preventative maintenance for at least five years or four one-year options.
- Installation & Training: Delivery, setup, and installation at BEP facilities within 180 days after award. Training for at least five BEP personnel, covering operation, calibration, validation, and user-level maintenance, with provided training materials.
Contract Details
- Contract Type: Firm Fixed-Price.
- Period of Performance: Five (5) years, consisting of a 12-month base period and four 12-month option periods.
- Delivery: All parts within 180 days after award.
- Warranty: Minimum one-year warranty for all parts, materials, labor, and travel.
- NAICS Code: 334516 – Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing.
- PSC: 6635 – Physical Properties Testing And Inspection.
- Place of Performance: Washington, DC.
Submission & Evaluation
- Questions Due: February 23, 2026, 2:00 PM ET.
- Quotes Due: March 10, 2026, 2:00 PM ET.
- Evaluation: Lowest Price Technically Acceptable (LPTA) source selection process.
- This solicitation is prepared in accordance with Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR) Subpart 12 & 13.
Contact Information
- Primary Contact: Kendra Napper, kendra.napper@bep.gov