Versa 730 X-ray Computed Tomography 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 National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has issued a Notice of Intent to Sole Source for the procurement of a Zeiss Versa 730 X-ray Computed Tomography Microscope. NIST intends to award a firm-fixed price purchase order to Carl Zeiss Microscopy, LLC for this system, which is critical for micro-scale three-dimensional imaging of semiconductor materials and devices. Interested parties believing they can meet the specified requirements must submit a capability statement by June 11, 2026, at 11:00 AM ET.
Purpose & Justification
NIST requires the Zeiss Versa 730 XRM to replace an outdated, unserviceable Zeiss Versa XRM 500 microscope. The sole source determination is based on the unique qualifications of Carl Zeiss Microscopy, LLC to ensure:
- Continuity of Research: Compatibility with existing data collected over the past decade using proprietary "Scout and Scan" software.
- Hardware Compatibility: Re-use of custom mechanical testing hardware from the legacy system.
- Advanced Capabilities: The Versa 730's proprietary lens-based magnification system and 60-megapixel camera are essential for AI/ML applications, providing near-continuous magnification adjustment not available from other vendors.
Scope of Requirement
NIST seeks one (1) Zeiss Versa XRM 730 X-ray Computed Tomography Microscope system with options for additional features and extended warranties. Key requirements include:
- Resolution: Ultimate spatial resolution of 450 nm or smaller, minimum voxel size of 40 nm.
- Optics & Detection: Two-stage optics-based magnification system with 0.4X, 4X, 20X, and 40X lenses, and a detector of at least 60 megapixels.
- Software: Full instrument control, 3D reconstruction, AI/ML integrated acquisition and reconstruction software (2-year license), and a software API.
- Support: Three days of on-site training for up to five NIST staff and a one-year comprehensive warranty.
- Optional Items: In-situ Experimentation Interface, Diffraction Contrast Tomography, Instrument Relocation, and Extended Warranty/Maintenance Support.
Contract Details
- Type: Firm-Fixed Price Purchase Order (Notice of Intent to Sole Source)
- NAICS: 334516 - Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing (Small Business Size Standard: 1,000 Employees)
- PSC: 6650 - Optical Instruments, Test Equipment, Components, and Accessories
- Place of Performance: NIST Boulder, CO
- Period of Performance: Eight (8) months from award for base delivery and installation.
- Delivery: FOB Destination to NIST Boulder, CO, with installation within 30 days of delivery.
- Trade-In: NIST has an Xradia Versa 500 XCT available for trade-in credit.
Response Information
This is a notice of intent, not a request for quotation. Interested parties must submit a written capability statement via email to Lauren.Roller@nist.gov by June 11, 2026, at 11:00 AM Eastern Time. Submissions should include contractor name, address, point of contact, DUNS, business classification (as validated in SAM.gov), and a capability statement.