Digital Microscope

Amendment / Modification

This amendment (00001) serves to provide responses to vendor questions.

• The amendment references an attachment titled "2031ZA26Q00037_Digital Microscope_ Questions and Responses" for the vendor question responses.

This amendment does not appear to modify submission deadlines or evaluation criteria, but rather provides clarification in response to vendor inquiries.

Questions & Answers / Clarifications

This document provides responses to vendor questions regarding the "Digital Microscope" opportunity, clarifying requirements and specifications.

• Sample Types: The microscope will be used for paper, films, foils, and inks.
• Application: The primary use is for imaging and investigating materials on banknotes or security documents.
• Documentation: Camera documentation (primarily pictures, potentially videos) is required, as detailed in the Statement of Work (Sections 3.1.1 and 3.1.3).
• Object Size: The microscope must accommodate objects up to the size of banknotes, down to individual fibers. A stage with at least 100 mm x 100 mm of motion range is required.
• Working Distance: Not specified, as it depends on magnification. The Government may require close proximity to the sample.
• Software Features: The need for measurement tools within the software is referenced in Section 3.1.8 of the Statement of Work.

This Q&A document clarifies specific technical requirements and sample handling, which bidders should consider when preparing their proposals. It directs bidders to specific sections of the Statement of Work for further details on configuration, magnification, and software features.

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This solicitation is for a research-grade digital microscope, including all sub-systems and major components, with the latest operating system and data analysis software. The Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP) requires this microscope for collecting microscopic images, performing measurements, and analyzing dimensional and height information. The acquisition is for commercial items prepared in accordance with FAR Subpart 12 & 13.

• Digital Microscope: Must be research-grade with high dynamic range imaging, real-time automatic focus, and automatic lighting optimization. It should be plug-and-play.

• Illumination and Viewing: Must include reflected and transmitted light, and support 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; automatic magnification changes recognized by the computer.

• Stage: XY-automated stage with at least 100 mm x 100 mm range; motorized z-control for extended depth of field and 3D imaging; stage/stand allowing sample rotation and tilting of the microscope head (at least 60°).

• Computer: Windows 11 Pro with minimum requirements (Intel Core Ultra 7, 64GB RAM, 1TB HDD, 8GB graphics card, Network Card). Must function offline. Software upgrades via digital media (USB/CD), no remote access.

• Software: Includes 2D analysis (measurements, particle testing), 3D image creation/viewing/measurements, automated task replication (2D/3D measurement, XYZ location, lighting, capture, magnification), automated XY stitching, and exportable data formats. Licenses for at least 3 users for offline viewing/analysis.

• Peripherals: Wired keyboard, mouse, and SmartCard reader.

• Calibration: NIST certified calibration scale required.

• Maintenance: Preventative maintenance for at least five years or four one-year options.

• Installation: 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. Training materials to be provided.

• Contract Type: Firm Fixed-Price.

• Period of Performance: Five (5) years (12-month base period + 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.

• Submission Deadline: 03/10/2026, 2:00 PM ET.

• Evaluation: Lowest Price Technically Acceptable (LPTA) source selection process.

• NAICS Code: 334516 – Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing.

• Set-Aside: Not specified as a small business set-aside on the first page.

• The solicitation is prepared in accordance with FAR Subpart 12 & 13.

• DPAS and assigned rating are not applicable.

• Government-furnished materials are not provided.