Multi-Channel Arm (MCA)

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention intends to award a sole source firm fixed price purchase order to TECAN U.S. Inc, 9401 Globe Center Drive Suite 140, Morrisville, NC 27560 for the purchase of Multi-Channel Arm (MCA), Upgrade, Fluent. TECAN U.S. is the sole source provider of the Multi-Channel Arm (MCA), which is required for automated sample processing, RNA extraction, and diagnostic testing of samples for influenza virus. The Multi-Channel Arm (MCA) has a 96-well formatted arm that will complement existing 8-channel FCA arm (air driven) and the RGA (robotic arm). This is an additional arm that can work in parallel performing different tasks at the same time. The instrument also has liquid level detection capabilities and can detect liquid in individual tubes or wells of a plate allowing for RNA extraction, sample aliquoting, and PCR master mix preparation using pre-approved, standard operating procedures of the Influenza Division/CDC. The instrument dimensions will allow for installation in a pre-approved laboratory procedure room with these dimension specifications. The products offered by other manufactures did not meet the specifications required by standard operating procedures approved for use by the Influenza Division/CDC and/or exceed the available laboratory space. Additionally, the Multi-Channel Arm (MCA) is only compatible with the previously acquired TECAN system which is currently in use by the Influenza Division/CDC laboratory. This contract action is for supplies or services for which the Government intends to solicit and negotiate with only one source under the authority of FAR 13.106-1(b) (SAP) and 41 U.S.C. 3304(a)(1).. Interested persons may identify their interest and capability to respond to the requirement or submit proposals. This notice of intent is not a request for competitive quotations; however, all quotations/responses received within five (5) days of the issuance of this notice will be considered by the government. A determination by the government not to compete this proposed contract based upon responses to this notice is solely within the discretion of the government. Information received will normally be considered solely for the purpose of determining whether to conduct a competitive procurement. Any quotation/response should be emailed to contract specialist Maria Shamburger at [email protected] by COB August 17, 2020.