Cell Analyzer

This solicitation, numbered 1232SA26Q0598, is a combined synopsis and Request for Quotation issued under FAR Part 12 for the procurement of a single portable, laser-based cell analyzer and associated consumables, set aside exclusively for small businesses under a Total Small Business Set-Aside. The North American Industry Classification System code is 334516, with the small business size standard set at 1,000 employees, and all responsible small business sources are invited to submit quotations. The analyzer must meet stringent technical specifications including five-parameter fluorescence detection, microcapillary technology, a cell detection range of 0.5 to 60 micrometers, a maximum physical footprint of 10x15x10 inches, and the ability to deliver accurate viability and concentration data with a coefficient of variation no greater than 5%. Data output must be exportable in FCS 3.0 and CSV formats, and the system must comply with biosafety cabinet constraints and be compatible with bleach-based decontamination. The offeror must provide a new, unused unit with a minimum one-year warranty, delivered FOB Destination to USDA-NADC in Ames, Iowa, by December 31, 2026, with immediate operational readiness required upon delivery. Quotations must be submitted via email to James Porter at james.porter@usda.gov no later than May 11, 2026, at 1600 hrs CDT, using Standard Form 18, with no page or word limits imposed. The award will follow the Lowest Price Technically Acceptable methodology, where technical acceptability is a threshold requirement determined by compliance with all salient characteristics listed in Section E, and price is the sole evaluative factor among those who meet those requirements. The contract will be awarded as a Firm Fixed Price arrangement, with payment made via electronic funds transfer, governed by clauses addressing SAM-based payments, third-party payments, and accelerated payments to small business subcontractors. The offeror must hold a valid UEI and CAGE code, self-certify as a small business, and comply with all applicable FAR clauses including those on subcontracting limitations, code of business ethics, personal identity verification, Buy American standards, privacy training, and DEI compliance. No additional attachments or packaging specifications are provided within the solicitation, and the contracting office is located in Beltsville, Maryland, with no COR, COTR, or PCO