37 -- SMART CYCLER

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), National Veterinary Services laboratory (NVSL), Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service APHIS, intends to award a purchase order on a non-competitive basis to CEPHID, 904 Caribbean Drive, Sunnyvale, CA 94089-1302. CEPHID shall provide the use of quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to identify pathogens and potential biological select agents provides the rapid and sensitive detection of pathogens above culture-based methods. 1)The Smart Cycler System includes: 2 processing Blocks with 16 independent Reaction Sites, each with 4-Color Optical Excitation and Detection. Inculdes: (1) Laptop Computer with Life Science software, (1) Operator's Manual,(4)Tube Racks,(1)Cooling Block,(1)Mini-Centrifuge and (100) 25 ul Reaction Tubes and 2) Transportable Case device(TD)Blue. The Smart Cycler II Systems offers tremendous advantages in rapid detection of biological agents. The system allows the capability of screening multiple samples under a variety of conditions in less time than traditional PCR, while providing quantitative data of target DNA. The Smart Cycler II with an additional block offers increased range in optics, greater discrimination of gene targets, software improvements in data analysis, and greater sample capacity. This is not a request for quotes; however, sources may submit descriptive literature, fully documenting their capabilities, which will be considered by the agency. A determination to compete this procurement based on response(s) to this notice is solely within the discretion of the Government. The USDA intends to make an award immediately after the response date of this notice. The award will be made in accordance with FAR Part 12, Acquisitions of Commercial Items.