16 -- FIBER OPTIC RECEIVER, TRANSMITTER AND ENCLOSED POWER SUPPLY

The government intends to award a sole source contract to OPTICOMM Corporation for the procurement of fiber optic receivers, transmitters, and enclosed power supply units under Solicitation Number FA8307-07-R-0015. OPTICOMM is the sole manufacturer of these specialized components, which are essential for the current Video Routing Switcher system and hold proprietary manufacturing rights. Due to the discontinuation of previous units by OPTICOMM, the contract requires first article testing as certified by the Electronic System Center Configuration Control Board (ESC CCB), which exclusively authorizes any alternate components. The Air Force lacks sufficient data to open this requirement for competition, emphasizing the unique position of OPTICOMM in fulfilling the government's specialized needs. The contract reflects a pressing need to purchase additional spare units compatible with the existing system, with all responses expected by 1:00 p.m. on March 21, 2007. The contract solicitation is classified as a presolicitation and does not include set-aside designations or NAICS codes. Communication regarding the contract is directed to specific contract specialists via provided contact emails. The sole source nature and proprietary rights held by OPTICOMM underscore the importance of awarding this contract without competition to satisfy the government's requirements effectively.