58--Infra-Red Data Transceiver, Antenna, and Amplifier

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) at the National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC) intends to negotiate with only one source, Freewave Technologies Inc, 1880 South Flatiron Court, Suite F, Boulder CO 80301-2823 to acquire 20 each Data Transceivers with Antennas and Amplifiers. This action is authorized by and in accordance with FAR 6.302-1. The Government believes that the only responsible source capable of satisfying the agency's requirement is Freewave Technologies. A Justification for Other than Full and Open Competition has been prepared in support of this acquisition. These units are to be used in transmitting remotely sensed infrared fire image data taken from an aircraft without having to land the aircraft. The Freewave Technologies units are the only known units to have the capability of transmitting data distances of 75 to 100 miles and also are rugged enough to be deployed in a field location such as a Wildland Fire Camp or an aircraft environment. The following is a description of the items: Data Transceiver, part #FGR-115RE, 902 - 928 mhz, 115K band, SS Ethernet, with N-type female connectors in a ruggedized enclosure; Antenna, part #EAN0910SB, with cables and mounts, 890 - 940 mhz, 3-dB gain, max power 150 watts, colinear/coil 50 ohms impedence, 5/8 wave over a 1/4 wave, rod ferrule bright chrome, L-bracket with 5/16 inch mounting hole that accepts mount nut with .062 diameter radial holes, cable connector is industry #UG363/U; Amplifier, part #AAA-5W-N, 902-928 mhz, 5 watt amplifier with internal DC power supply. The estimated value of this simplified acquisition is less than $42,200.00. No Request for Quotation (RFQ) will be issued and no response will be made to letters or telephone requests for a copy of the solicitation. This is not a request for competitive quotes, but serves as a procurement notice to fulfill public posting requirements in accordance with FAR 5.101(a)(1). This requirement is set aside for small business and the NAICS code 334220 applies. Responsible firms believing they can provide the required items are encouraged to identify themselves and give written notification to the Contracting Officer referencing action item RAQ044000. However, they must provide convincing evidence that they can furnish the requested items at a cost that will not exceed the total estimated transaction cost. All responses will be fully considered. If no affirmative responses are received by January 29, 2004 to the effect that a comparable source exists, an order will be placed with Freewave Technologies Inc for the requirement stated here. Questions concerning this acquisition may be directed to Kathy Colson at 208-387-5545 or faxed to 208-387-5574.