66 -- Upgrade for a Mitutoyo Ultra UMAP (Microfeature Coordinate Measurement Machine (CMM))

The National Institutes of Standards and Technology (NIST) intends to negotiate a sole source contract with Mitutoyo America Corporation to upgrade a Mitutoyo Ultra UMAP Microfeature Coordinate Measurement Machine (CMM). This upgrade involves the procurement of a proprietary probe that significantly enhances the machine's capability, enabling measurement of micro-features up to five times deeper than current capabilities. Mitutoyo America Corporation is identified as the sole manufacturer and distributor of this specialized equipment, justifying the sole source approach under FAR 13.106(b)(1). The agency will not issue a solicitation package, and while this notice is not a solicitation for competitive quotations, responses received by July 26, 2006, will be reviewed solely to decide whether to pursue a competitive acquisition. The contract references a solicitation number 06-821-3993 and is associated with the Department of Commerce’s NIST in Gaithersburg, Maryland. This procurement falls under the NAICS code 334519. The point of contact for the contract is Albert J Petto Jr., a Contract Specialist reachable via phone or email provided in the notice. The sole source determination is based on the exclusive proprietary nature of the probe technology and Mitutoyo’s position as the only commercial supplier. The government retains discretion over whether to compete the acquisition based on any responses received during the notice period.