Automated Micro Plate Reader

Solicitation 1232SA26Q1490 is a request for quotations from the USDA Agricultural Research Service for the purchase of one automated micro plate reader to be used by the Plant Science Research Unit in Saint Paul, Minnesota. The agency is seeking a single manufacturer system capable of multi-mode absorbance, fluorescence, and luminescence detection, specifically to quantify protein concentrations in alfalfa and other plant materials. While the Molecular Devices SpectraMax Mini is identified as the preferred model, the government will consider equal products that meet or exceed all salient characteristics, including a strict physical size limit of 40cm x 33cm x 35cm due to benchtop restrictions, a bandpass of 5nm or less in absorbance, and thermal regulation from 4C ambient to 45C. This is an unrestricted acquisition under NAICS code 334516, and the contract will be awarded as a firm-fixed price purchase order based on the lowest price technically acceptable criteria. Technical acceptability requires the product to meet all specified characteristics and be supported by descriptive literature, while past performance will be rated as acceptable, neutral, or unacceptable. The successful offeror must provide indoor delivery to the Saint Paul facility within 60 days of receiving the order. Quotations are due by September 21, 2026, and the period of performance is scheduled from September 28, 2026, to November 27, 2026. Invoicing must be processed through the Department of Treasury's Invoice Processing Platform.