Supply of stereomicroscopes and lighting for scientific macroinvertebrate analysis

Tender description

Supply of 2 x stereomicroscopes with the ability to zoom into detailed features of macroinvertebrates ie hairs on legs so a good zoom range without losing the required level of detail is needed. There has to be sufficient working room to be able to manipulate the specimen underneath the objective lens. The addition of a camera for each stereomicroscope is required, and the ability of being able to share images remotely via mobile phone/MS Teams or a live link is required. Stereomicroscopes need to have ergonomic features to suit a variety of different users, and working heights ie standing/sitting and different working positions ie flexible eyepieces. A variety of different lighting options within the stereomicroscopes is a required to be to contrast different features so these may include light bases and separate gooseneck units. The ability to be able to take photographs but also have the capacity to be able to live link images to other staff remotely through existing mobile phones. Software for this camera should be built into the camera in case standalone computers cannot be used. Also the ability to connect imaging to a screen through HMDI would also be required. There is also a need for 1 general microscope for low magnification, initial macroinvertebrate sorting. The requirements for this would need to be able to accommodate a small plastic tray underneath so a clamp-based system would be appropriate to give the required working room underneath. Magnification would still be required but not to the level specified above. The final part of this purchase is to replace our current lighting systems as they are becoming more difficult to repair or purchase spare parts. The requirement for 10 gooseneck lighting systems to be either standalone or the ability to clamp onto existing clamp systems to free up limited lab space. Installation at 2 separate office locations (Preston and Penrith) and delivery costs also need to be included. Cover bags for each microscope system will also need to be supplied. All parts of this purchase need to be delivered to an Environment Agency office (either Penrith or Preston - to be confirmed on award) and invoiced against by 29th March 2024. Additional information: To apply for this opportunity you must submit your quotation meeting the requirements detailed in the Request for Quotation (RFQ) attached. Your response must be sent to [rebecca.tinsley@environment-agency.gov.uk] by 12 midday on [14th December 2023].