Plate Reader

The contract specifies the procurement of a high-performance plate reader capable of acquiring real-time data through multiple detection modes including monochromator-based fluorescence, UV/Vis absorbance, and luminescence. The instrument must feature a linear variable monochromator with tunable bandpasses up to 100nm and a tunable dichroic mirror enabling an air-based light path without fiber optics or light guides. Fluorescence measurements require auto-ranging detector sensitivity and gain capable of handling signals exceeding 760 million counts, with dynamic range adjustments completed in under 0.1 seconds. Absorbance measurements must be performed using a dedicated diode array spectrometer, not a monochromator, capturing a full UV/Vis spectrum from 220nm to 1000nm at 1nm resolution in less than 0.5 seconds with simultaneous wavelength acquisition. The optical head must be heated to maintain uniform temperature conditions in microplate wells during detection, with a temperature controller capable of reaching up to 45°C. The system must include bottom reading capability, two automated reagent injectors for kinetic and flash luminescence assays, and an atmospheric control unit with software-controlled regulation of CO2 and O2 levels to support cell culture at 5% CO2. Software for data visualization and analysis must be included. This procurement is part of a Small Business Set Aside under the SBA program, identified by NAICS code 334516, and is issued by the Department of Defense through the W6QM Micc-Ft Drum office located in Fort Drum, New York. The solicitation number is W911S226U3818, posted on July 28, 2026, with a response deadline of August 6, 2026. The place of performance is listed as zip code 10996, and the primary point of contact is Carl Lundell, reachable at carl.lundell@westpoint.edu or 845-938-8298. The instrument must meet all technical specifications with no compromises in performance, particularly in speed, precision, and environmental control, to support advanced biological and biochemical research applications under controlled conditions.