System Computer Upgrade for Zeiss Spinning Disk
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 Institutes of Health (NIH), Office of the Director, intends to procure a System Computer Upgrade for a Carl Zeiss Spinning Disk on a sole source basis from Carl Zeiss Microscopy. This acquisition, identified as RFQ 75N98026Q00143, is for a pre-configured, certified workstation to ensure compliance with NIH security standards and operational integrity of the existing Zeiss system. Quotations from interested vendors are due April 6, 2026, by 9:00 AM EDT.
Scope of Work
This requirement involves upgrading the existing Zeiss Spinning Disk Confocal System with a new computer configuration. The upgrade includes a Microscopy Workstation Premium (HPZ8G5), various Intel Xeon processors, memory, graphics cards, network adapters, SSDs, trigger boards, signal splitter boxes, and several ZEN software modules (ZEN 3.2 system, Tiles/Positions, Experiment Designer, Physiology, and camera drivers). The upgrade is critical because the current legacy computer is out of compliance with NIH security standards, posing a vulnerability to the network. The new system must run Windows 10 LTSC 2021.
Justification for Sole Source
The acquisition is being conducted on a sole source basis with Carl Zeiss Microscopy, LLC, under the authority of 41 U.S.C. 253(c)(1) and FAR 6.302. This is due to the proprietary nature of the Zeiss Spinning Disk system, which relies on a complex suite of Zeiss-proprietary software, drivers, and internal hardware controllers. Only an OEM-certified system from Zeiss can guarantee seamless integration and operation. Carl Zeiss Microscopy is the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) and holds exclusive proprietary rights, with no third-party authorized resellers capable of performing the required integrated upgrade and system re-calibrations.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Combined Synopsis/Solicitation, Request for Quotation (RFQ)
- NAICS: 334111 (Computer and Peripheral Equipment Manufacturing), Size Standard: 1250 employees
- Set-Aside: Not set aside for totally small business
- Response Due: April 6, 2026, 9:00 AM EDT
- Published: March 26, 2026
- Delivery: 6-8 weeks after receipt of order to NIH Main Campus, Bethesda, MD.
Submission Requirements
Interested vendors capable of furnishing the specified items should submit a quotation via email to robinsti@mail.nih.gov. Responses must include descriptive literature, warranties, delivery timeframe, and other information demonstrating the ability to meet all requirements. Quotations must reference "Solicitation number 75N98026Q00143" and include the Offeror's Unique Entity ID (UEI), Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN), and certification of business size.
Additional Notes
Contractors must maintain an active SAM registration throughout the entire contract lifecycle to be eligible for award and payment.