Notice of Intent to Sole Source: Acquisition of Gel/Membrane Digital Imager and Analysis System

The USDA, Agricultural Research Service (ARS), National Animal Disease Center (NADC) in Ames, IA, intends to award a sole-source, firm-fixed-price contract to Azure Biosystems, Inc. (Unique Entity ID: HL4SNBDGMQG5) for the acquisition of one (1) Azure 300 Gel/Membrane Digital Imager and Analysis System (Product No. AZI300-01), along with a color trans-white light table bundle, image analysis software, and required shipping. Statutory Authority: This acquisition is being conducted under the authority of FAR 13.106-1(b)(1), soliciting from a single source for purchases not exceeding the Simplified Acquisition Threshold (SAT). Rationale: Market research indicates that Azure Biosystems is the only known manufacturer capable of providing a digital imager that meets all agency baseline specifications—specifically a space-saving footprint not exceeding 50 x 60 x 40 cm (W x H x D), a built-in touchscreen computer running internal capture software (operating independently without requiring an active internet connection), an integrated 9.1 MP CCD sensor cooled to -50°C below ambient, dual-wavelength UV transillumination (302nm/365nm), and automatic image focusing. Alternate systems identified do not fit the established lab footprint constraint or possess inferior camera capabilities. Responses: This notice is not a request for competitive proposals or quotations. However, responsible sources who believe they can fully provide an equivalent system meeting all exact dimensions and technical thresholds may submit a written capability statement. Capability statements must be received by the closing date of this notice and sent via email to Michael J. Wheelock at Michael.Wheelock@usda.gov. A determination by the Government not to compete this proposed action based upon responses is solely within the discretion of the Government.