The statutory authority for this sole source acquisition is 10 U.S.C 2304(c)(1) in accordance with FAR Part 6.302-1- only one responsible source and no other supplies or services will satisfy the agency requirement. The NAICS code for this procurement is 334516, Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing. The period of performance for this procurement is 4 months.

There are unique features of this Gerstel equipment that include the complete integration of the operating software (Maestro) into the GC-MS control software. This allows for the complete system to be operated using a single software system. Maestro also features a unique "Prep-ahead" function which allows for the overlap of sample preparation during sample analysis thereby increasing overall method throughput. Gerstel is the only manufacturer who offers the Dual Head Single Rail MPS with the prep, SPME and Headspace options. In addition, the Gerstel Dual Head Single Rail MPS includes a gas line which is necessary for headspace analysis (needed for current LRN-C methods) that is not present on other vendor instrumentation.

In addition to the features of the instrumentation, Gerstel has been the vendor for all of the GC-MS autosamplers throughout the Chemical Laboratory Response Network (LRN-C). In order to be consistent with these labs and allow for continuity in the program, the CDC needs to have the same instrumentation. The state public health laboratories use Gerstel MPS, CIS 4C and CTS-2 systems and they are familiar with the manufacturer's hardware and software. Gerstel is currently the manufacturer that has provided autosampler instrumentation to the state LRN-C laboratories. In order to have consistency across the network, we need to acquire the same make and model of instrumentation.

As a result of this synopsis, no competitive solicitation will be posted on FedBizOpps. We will issue only one solicitation to Gerstel Inc. However, all responsible sources that believe they can meet these requirements may submit their capabilities/qualifications statement to provide the maintenance to Vallerie Redd VIA E-MAIL ONLY at [email protected] with the solicitation number 01195 referenced in the subject line NO LATER THAN August18, 2011.

A determination by the Government not to compete this proposed action will be based on responses to this notice and are solely within the discretion of the Contracting Officer. Information received will be considered solely for the purpose of determining whether to conduct a competitive procurement.