The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), intends to negotiate, on a sole source basis, under authority of FAR 13.106-1(b)(1), with Hitachi High Technology, Pleasanton, CA, for a Hitachi Model S-4800-II Scanning/Transmission Electron Microscope Service Agreement. Sole Source determination is based on the following: The Precision Engineering Division currently uses a Hitachi Model S-4800-II Scanning/Transmission Electron Microscope. NIST requires a yearly maintenance agreement for the microscope. Hitachi?s maintenance agreement utilizes proprietary procedures and parts. Therefore the service agreement must be supplied by Hitachi. Hitachi High Technology is the sole manufacturer and distributor of the microscope for which the service agreement is required to satisfy the Government?s minimum requirements. The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code for this acquisition is 334516, and the size standard is 500 employees. No solicitation package will be issued. This notice of intent is not a request for competitive quotations; however, the Government will consider responses received by March 20, 2008, 3:30 p.m. EST. A determination by the Government not to compete the proposed acquisition 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.

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