Requirements: To ensure continuity of research, NIAMS proposes the acquisition of an Applied Biosystems QuantStudio 3 Real-Time PCR System. qPCR is a core technology used for nucleic acid amplification, quantification, and analysis and supports a wide range of research applications, including gene expression studies, pathogen detection, transcript quantification, and validation of experimental results. The QuantStudio 3 is the closest replacement to the current StepOnePlus systems, allowing researchers to maintain established workflows and consistency in experimental design and data interpretation. The QuantStudio 3 offers several operational advantages, including user-friendly software, compatibility with both Mac and PC platforms, touchscreen operation, and the ability to function as a standalone instrument or in conjunction with a computer. Its thermal block design is similar to the existing systems, minimizing the learning curve for users and supporting a broad range of genomic applications. In addition, the manufacturer offers trade-in credit for the current instruments, reducing the overall acquisition cost while providing access to a fully supported platform with available parts and technical support. Acquiring the QuantStudio 3 at this time will help prevent interruptions to research activities, maintain reliable and consistent data generation, and ensure that NIAMS laboratories have access to a supported and dependable qPCR platform. 4.1 PRODUCT FEATURES/SALIENT CHARACTERISTICS The contractor shall provide one Applied Biosystems QuantStudio 3 Real-Time PCR System or an equal system that meets all the following minimum requirements. 4.1.1. System Features/Benefits The system shall: • Utilize a platform providing 1 TB or storage space for data sharing at user discretion • be used with online scientific apps • come with desktop-based software, allowing single-plate run setup and analysis. 4.1.2. Technical specifications – Instrument The instrument shall: • have a 96 well 0.1 ml plate block format and the option to run fast protocols <30 minutes • not require a field service engineer for set up by end user. Set up should be easy for end user – directly out of the box. • not require a computer for installation • use an RNase P verification plate to verify performance • not require dye calibration upon installation • have dimensions fo 27 x 50 x 40 cm and be designed to maximize horizonal and vertical bench space • be capable of analyzing 96 samples simultaneously in various formats incluing both 96-well plates, 8-tube strips and individual tubes • the 96-well block should be made of at least 3 separated Peltier elements – VeriFlex Blocks. The maximum temperature difference programmable across the block should be 10 degrees C. 5 degrees C should be the maximum difference in temperature allowed between adjacent blocks. • Support reaction volumes of 10-30 uL on 0.1mL the 96-well block • Be factory calibrated with FAM, SYBR Green 1, VIC, NED, ABY…