Notice of Intent to Sole Source Hyperfine Swoop MRI System Software and Maintenance
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 National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) intends to award a sole-source, firm-fixed-price purchase order to Hyperfine Operations, Inc. for software updates and maintenance of its Hyperfine Swoop Portable MRI System. This notice is to identify any other interested parties capable of meeting the requirements. Responses are due February 20, 2026.
Purpose & Justification
NIST currently uses the Hyperfine Swoop MRI system for imaging reference objects and conducting human subjects research. Comprehensive market research confirms that Hyperfine Operations, Inc. is the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) and the sole provider of the proprietary software architecture required for the system's operation. The software is closed-source and protected by intellectual property rights, meaning no third-party vendors can provide necessary updates, security patches, or deep-learning reconstruction algorithm calibrations. Furthermore, Hyperfine is the only entity with the specialized diagnostic tools and certified technicians required to perform hardware maintenance without compromising the system's FDA-cleared performance specifications. Consequently, NIST believes Hyperfine Operations, Inc. is the only source capable of satisfying the government’s requirement for continued operational integrity and data consistency.
Scope of Work
The requirement includes:
- Software & Firmware Support: Annual access to the Hyperfine cloud-based image reconstruction platform, system operation, deployment of all software updates, and ensuring compliance with NIST IT security requirements for networked laboratory equipment.
- Preventative Maintenance: Two scheduled visits per year. Each visit must include verification of the static magnetic field homogeneity, testing and calibration of the Gradient Coils and RF chains, mechanical inspection, validation of the internal "Self-Shielding" electromagnetic interference (EMI) cancellation system, replacement of high-wear items, and bridge/motor checks.
- Corrective Maintenance (Repairs): Phone/remote support within 4 business hours and on-site repair services within 48-72 hours of a service call. All replacement parts must be new, OEM-certified, and compatible with the Swoop MRI architecture. Coverage includes the 8-channel Head Coil and any specialized NIST-purchased coils.
Contract Details & Timeline
- Contract Type: Anticipated Firm-Fixed-Price Purchase Order.
- NAICS Code: 811210 – Electronic and Precision Equipment Repair and Maintenance (Size Standard: $34M).
- Period of Performance: Base Period: March 01, 2026 – February 28, 2027, plus four (4) option years, extending through February 28, 2031.
- Place of Performance: NIST facilities at the DOC Boulder Laboratories site, Building 81, 325 Broadway, Boulder, CO 80305.
- Response Due: February 20, 2026, 6:00 PM UTC.
- Published Date: February 13, 2026.
- Anticipated Award Date: By March 01, 2026 (if competitive procedures are not used).
Response Instructions
This is a notice of intent, not a solicitation. Interested parties who can demonstrate the capability to satisfy the listed requirements must clearly and unambiguously identify their capabilities in writing. Information submitted will be used solely to determine if competitive procedures could be used for this acquisition. Submit responses to: lisa.stevens@nist.gov.