Video Robot Encoder - Library of Congress

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document specifies the technical requirements for creating archival and viewing files for moving image content. It details the required file formats, codecs, resolutions, color components, bit depth, frame rates, aspect ratios, and audio specifications for both archive and viewing files.

Archive File Specifications:

• Type 1 (MKV Wrapper):
  • Video Coding: FFV1 (Versions 0, 1, 3), native resolution, color components (RGB or YCbCr 10-bit), bit depth (>=10-bit), frame rate, interlaced/progressive raster, and aspect ratio must be preserved. FFV1 Version 3.4+ required, GOP Size 1, CRC Slices configurable.
  • Audio Coding: Linear PCM sampled WAV RF64 at 48 kHz, 24-bit sampling, matching source tracks.
  • Additional Streams: Time codes and statutory metadata (e.g., closed captioning) should be included.
• Type 2 (MXF OP1a Wrapper):
  • Image Essence Coding: JPEG2000 reversible 5/3, native resolution, color components (RGB or YCbCr 10-bit), bit depth (>=10-bit), frame rate, interlaced/progressive raster, and aspect ratio must be preserved. Single tile, LRCP cadence, configurable interlace KLV metadata.
  • Audio Coding: PCM sampled BWF (Broadcast WAV) RF64 at 96 kHz, 24-bit sampling, matching source tracks.
  • Time Codes: SMPTE time code preserved as a track within the MXF wrapper.
  • Statutory Metadata: Closed captioning data included.

Viewing File Specification:

• Video Codec: H.264/AVC, same resolution and frame rate as source.
• Bit Rate: Constant Rate Factor 18.
• Color Space: YUV, Chroma Subsampling 4:2:0, 8-bit Depth, Progressive Scan Type.
• Audio Encoding: AAC, 48 kHz Sampling Rate, Variable Bit Rate.
• Included Metadata: FCC Timed Text audio captions and one of the Archive File timecodes.

Bidders involved in media digitization, archival, or delivery services must adhere to these precise technical specifications for file creation. Understanding these requirements is crucial for accurate proposal development and successful project execution, particularly concerning the preservation of source material integrity and compliance with archival standards.

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This solicitation is for the procurement of one video encoder, including auxiliary components, equipment, and software. The Library of Congress (LOC) requires this additional encoder for testing purposes and as a standby for existing units within its Audiovisual Digitization Laboratory.

• One video encoder with specific hardware and software requirements.

• Hardware specifications include a 2U rack-mounted form factor, DVI video output, 8-channel SDI input card, RS422/232 ports, dual power supplies, and hardware/software RAID compatibility.

• Software requirements include METUS Ingest encoding software (perpetual license), Indelt/DigiCart software compatibility, Prepcart database compatibility, and FFmpeg version 8 or above compatibility. Software must not be subscription-based.

• A 12-month warranty for hardware and software is required, commencing upon formal acceptance.

• Contract Type: Firm-Fixed-Price.

• Period of Performance: Base year (06-30-2026 to 06-29-2027) with four optional one-year support and maintenance periods.

• Estimated Value: Not explicitly stated, but the pricing schedule includes CLINs for the base year and option years.

• Submission Method: Electronic via email to the Contract Specialist and Contracting Officer.

• Offer Due Date: April 17, 2026, at 17:00 EDT.

• Evaluation Criteria: Low Price Technically Acceptable (LPTA). Offers will be evaluated for technical acceptability and lowest price.

• Proposal Format: Specific formatting requirements are detailed, including page limits, font sizes, and file types. No zipped files are permitted.

• The acquisition is listed as "UNRESTRICTED OR SET ASIDE:" with no specific set-aside indicated on the first page. However, various small business categories are listed as potential set-asides.

• Questions are due by April 9, 2026. A Q&A document will be provided.

• Offerors must be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM).

• The solicitation incorporates FAR clauses by reference, including those related to commercial items, contract terms, and conditions.