Notice of Intent to Sole Source: Nanoscope 6 Controller Upgrade and AutoMET Software Package

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) intends to negotiate on a sole source basis, under the authority of FAR 6.302-1 with:

Bruker Nano Inc. (EUI # HF8BQ45QKKJ3)

3400 E Britannia DR STE 150

Tucson, Arizona

85706-5010

The sole source justification is based on the following:

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has a requirement for a Nanoscope 6 Controller Upgrade and one (1) AutoMET Software Package. Bruker Nano, Inc. designed and manufactured the Dimension Icon AFM. This included the proprietary computer (data acquisition, boards, etc), the Nanoscope controller (sends signal to and receives signal from the AFM), and the AFM hardware. In order to advance research programs, NIST wants to acquire the AutoMET software package, which enables high-throughput, user-defined automated capability for imaging multiple locations across a single sample and/or multiple locations across multiple samples. The AutoMET package consequently requires an associated upgrade of the NanoScope 5 controller to the most recent NanoScope 6 controller and associated computer upgrade. Moreover, the computer upgrade also brings the system up to date with the Win10 requirements per NIST IT policy, which will also allow simplified remote desktop connection to the instrument for measurement quality assurance during unattended operation.

Given the proprietary nature of the Dimension Icon AFM design and implementation, there is no other company that has the knowledge or ability to provide the required AutoMET software package and associated system upgrade to the Dimension Icon AFM.

Given these facts, Bruker Nano, Inc. is the only source reasonably available to fulfill the requirement. The resulting purchase order will be a Firm Fixed Price purchase order. The NAICS Code is 334516 - Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing with a size standard of 1000 employees.

No solicitation package will be issued. This notice of intent is not a request for competitive quotations; however, interested parties who regard themselves as capable of fulfilling these requirements are invited to submit responses to the Government for consideration. Responses received by 1:00 pm EST March 16, 2023, will be considered by the Government. Responses must be submitted via email to the Government point of contacts listed below.

A determination by the Government not to compete the proposed acquisition based upon responses to this notice is solely within the discretion of the Government. Information received will normally be considered solely for the purpose of determining whether to conduct a competitive procurement.