The USDA, ARS, LSO intends to solicit and negotiate with only one source Trek Diagnostics Systems, 982 Keynote Circle, St. 6, Cleveland, OH 44131 to furnish an autoinoculator, autoreader, SWIN computer and a sensitouch for analysis of susceptibility test results to track the development of antimicrobial resistance in veterinary isolates as it arises in an attempt to arrest the development and spread of resistance, especially among food borne pathogens. In order to maintain consistent testing of isolates and comparability of data, the equipment must be used at established NARMS participating sites. NARMS, National Antimicrobial Resistance Monitoring System, locations must be consistent in their use of identical antimicrobial susceptibility testing protocols. This procurement will be made pursuant to FAR 6.302-1(2) (C)(ii). No telephone inquiries will be accepted. Interested parties should submit written responses including prices and technical data sufficient to determine capability to meet the entire requirement and must be received in this office within 7 calendar days after publication of this notice. It should be noted that no contract will be awarded on the basis of offers received in response to this notice, but will be used to determine if a comparable source more advantageous to the Government is available. If no affirmative written responses are received, negotiations will be held with Trek Diagnostic Systems without further notice. This acquisition is being conducted under the Federal Acquisition Streamlining Act, Simplified Acquisition Procedures. The anticipated award date is April 18, 2005. Payment: Any award made under this solicitation is subject to 31 CFR Part 208 that requires all payments made by the government to be made by electronic funds transfer. Vendors may meet this requirement by acceptance of government purchase card or providing a Vendor Express Number. If a company has not previously enrolled in the Vendor Express Program with USDA, they should call the National Finance Center at 1-800-421-0323 for an enrollment package. All offers must include with their quotation a completed copy of FAR 52.212-3 available at www.arnet.gov/far.

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