US-FED-00000388443 - Upgrade to the Zeiss Serial Block Face Scanning Electron Microscope - Deadline August 7,2026

Authority: FAR 6.302–1 Only One Responsible Source and No Other Supplies or Services Will Satisfy Agency RequirementsContracting Activity:National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering (NIBIB)Proposed Contractor:Carl ZeissDescription of RequirementThis is an upgrade to the Zeiss Serial Block Face Scanning Electron Microscope. This instrument is used to study the three–dimensional structure of cells and tissues using the serial block face (SBF) imaging technique using an ultramicrotome built into the specimen chamber of the SEM.Justification for Sole SourceNIBIB intends to negotiate and award a sole source contract to Carl Zeiss pursuant to FAR 6.302–1, Only One Responsible Source and No Other Supplies or Services Will Satisfy Agency Requirements. The proposed upgrade is for an existing Zeiss Serial Block Face Scanning Electron Microscope (SBF–SEM) manufactured by Carl Zeiss AG. This upgrade must be carried out by the original equipment manufacturer because:1. Proprietary Technologyo The upgrade involves proprietary hardware, software, firmware, and system integration developed exclusively by Carl Zeiss.o The technical specifications, source code, calibration procedures, and engineering documentation necessary to perform the upgrade are not available to third–party vendors.2. System Compatibilityo The microscope is an integrated instrument whose imaging performance depends on precise compatibility between the microscope hardware, detectors, stage controls, software, and Serial Block Face system.o Only Carl Zeiss can ensure that the upgraded components are fully compatible with the existing instrument configuration.3. Factory Calibration and Validationo Following installation, the upgraded system requires factory–approved calibration, alignment, and performance verification to meet manufacturer specifications.o These procedures require proprietary service tools, software, and trained factory–certified engineers.4. Preservation of Warranty and Service Supporto Installation by any non–authorized organization could invalidate manufacturer warranties, future service agreements, software support, or eligibility for future upgrades.