Quebec SEAO #20180662

Keyence VHX-X1 digital microscope for UQAC’s CURAL laboratory

Université du Québec à Chicoutimi is seeking a digital microscope for research use in its CURAL laboratory. - Government buyer: Université du Québec à Chicoutimi (UQAC), for its CURAL laboratory. - OEM: Keyence; the notice identifies Keyence as the sole-source supplier under consideration. - Product requested: One Keyence VHX-X1 digital microscope; no part number or purchase quantity is specified. - Key requirement: The microscope must interface with UQAC’s existing Keyence EA-300 laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) module. Changing the setup could make ongoing research data, 3D images, and measurements incomparable and require recalibration and repeated analysis. - Opportunity context: UQAC is assessing whether an alternative solution or substitute goods could meet its requirements. - Estimated value: $139,000–$347,399. Delivery is expected in early 2027; the stated performance duration is 2, with the unit unspecified.

Description

The notice concerns the acquisition of a VHX-X1 digital microscope from Keyence for the CURAL laboratory at Université du Québec à Chicoutimi. The university intends to award a sole-source supply contract to Keyence, which it considers the only supplier able to meet its technical or scientific requirements and interface with its existing EA-300 LIBS system. The notice is published to review the market and determine whether an alternative solution or substitute goods exist. The estimated value is $139,000 to $347,399, with delivery expected in early 2027.

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