Scope
Reference
CEFAS25-71
Description
Cefas requires the supply, installation, and configuration of a new Network Video Recorder to replace its existing server, which has reached end-of-support status. The current system utilises an Avigilon server supporting approximately 18 encoders and 20 users. The camera network comprises of approximately 30 analogue cameras, although they are not all always connected at the same time.
The Home Office prefers Cefas to have video capability to be able to view the animals without human interaction, which enables the ability to spot specific behavioural patterns within the holding tanks which cannot be attributed to a prey response or change in lighting. The users of the holding tanks are required to obtain Home Office licences to undertake experiments on animals, and in most (if not all) cases, the use of cameras is laid out within this licence approval.
Scope of Requirements:
1. Technical Requirement
One rack-mounted server is needed to handle the number of users and cameras specified above, with enough storage capacity for future upgrades to high-definition images with IP cameras. The server must use:
• a RAID6 array to withstand up to two disk failures
• enough storage to keep high definition images for a minimum of one month before being overwritten after capacity is reached
• a modern and supported Windows Server Operating System such as Windows Server 2022 or 2025
• Avigilon Server software to ensure compatibility with the existing environment.
2. Environmental Considerations
• Unit should have an ultra low power consumption.
• Consideration of how packaging will be managed. Ideally at the time of installation the supplier will remove packaging and dispose of by ethical and environmentally friendly methods. Where possible packaging is to be re-used or recycled.
3. Hardware, Software, PC, Licenses, operating systems
3.1 Avigilon Server software licensed appropriately for 18 encoders and up to 20 client users.
4. Compatibility with existing hardware/software/equipment
4.1 Compatibility with existing analogue cameras and encoders is essential.
4.2 The operating system must use a modern, supported Windows Server Operating System to ensure compatibility with Cefas' endpoint protection software and server management tools.
5. Installation
5.1 Quotations must cover Avigilon software installation, connectivity to the camera network and software configuration. Server installation should be coordinated with Cefas IT Services to ensure that networking, endpoint protection, and monitoring are configured.
6. Ease of maintenance
6.1 The supplied solution should be a genuine Avigilon hardware appliance.
7. Parts, Consumables and Updates
7.1 All parts must be covered under warranty in the event of failure
8. Warranties and Guarantees
8.1 Warranties will start from the point of acceptance of delivery and once the goods have been tested to ensure they are in working order. Cefas expect minimum warranty period of 12 months to be included in the purchase.
8.2 Warranties should include replacements of parts in the event of failure, including disk failures and full server replacement in the event of a catastrophic failure.
8.3 Options for on-site support and/or remote assistance should be available.
Delivery Date:
It is essential that delivery is made to Cefas Weymouth Laboratory before 27th February 2026. You should confirm lead time in your bid submission.
Total value (estimated)
- £17,000 excluding VAT
- £20,400 including VAT
Below the relevant threshold
Contract dates (estimated)
- 19 December 2025 to 26 February 2027
- 1 year, 2 months, 8 days
Main procurement category
Goods
CPV classifications
- 32333100 - Video recorders
Participation
Particular suitability
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SME)
Submission
Enquiry deadline
19 November 2025, 12:00pm
Tender submission deadline
27 November 2025, 12:00pm
Submission address and any special instructions
Download the Bidder Pack at https://defra-family.force.com/s/Welcome and search for CEFAS25-71 under opportunities. .
Tenders may be submitted electronically
Yes
Award criteria
| Name | Type | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Technical | Quality | 60.00% |
| Cost | Cost | 30.00% |
| Social Value | Quality | 10.00% |
Procedure
Procedure type
Below threshold - open competition
Contracting authority
CENTRE FOR ENVIRONMENT, FISHERIES AND AQUACULTURE SCIENCE
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PPGW-5299-JGTN
Pakefield Road
Lowestoft
NR33 0HT
United Kingdom
Contact name: Laura Anderson
Email: procure@cefas.gov.uk
Region: UKH14 - Suffolk
Organisation type: Public authority - sub-central government