BRAND NAME Rohde & Schwarz 50 GHz Vector Network Analyzer (VNA)
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The Department of Commerce, National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), is seeking quotations for a BRAND NAME Rohde & Schwarz 50 GHz Vector Network Analyzer (VNA). This is an unrestricted combined synopsis/solicitation (RFQ) for a direct replacement instrument for the NIST antenna laboratory. Electronic quotations are due by May 25, 2026, at 1:00 PM MDT.
Scope of Work
NIST requires one (1) Rohde & Schwarz Vector Network Analyzer capable of operating from 10 MHz to 50 GHz. Key technical specifications include 4-test ports with 2.4 mm connectors, on-board Time Domain (TDR) analysis, compatibility with external mmWave frequency converters, precision frequency reference, and a 2-way Wilkinson power divider. The VNA will replace an existing Rohde & Schwarz ZVA50 VNA and must integrate seamlessly with current laboratory test infrastructure to avoid disruption to antenna calibration services and extensive rework.
Contract Details
This acquisition is a firm-fixed-price purchase order utilizing simplified acquisition procedures under FAR Part 12. The associated NAICS code is 334515 – Instrument Manufacturing for Measuring and Testing Electricity and Electrical Signals, with a small business size standard of 750 employees. The solicitation incorporates provisions and clauses from Federal Acquisition Circular (FAC) 2026-01, with a class deviation for the Revolutionary FAR Overhaul (RFO). The contract requires a 2-year extended manufacturer warranty and a 3-year extended calibration plan, including labor, parts, and travel.
Submission & Evaluation
Quoters must submit electronic quotations via email in three volumes: Technical, Price, and Terms and Conditions. The Technical volume should include product literature, country of origin, manufacturer authorization, and confirmation of delivery terms. The Price volume must detail a firm-fixed-price per line item, including shipping. The Terms and Conditions volume requires review and completion of all attached provisions and clauses. Award will be made to the responsible quoter offering the lowest priced, technically acceptable solution. Technical capability will be assessed on meeting or exceeding minimum requirements, and price will be evaluated for reasonableness. Quoters must have an ACTIVE SAM.gov registration at the time of submission and award.
Key Dates & Contact
- Questions Due: May 20, 2026, 10:00 AM MDT
- Quotations Due: May 25, 2026, 1:00 PM MDT
- Contact: Clifford Nicholson, clifford.nicholson@nist.gov, 303-497-5185
Additional Notes
This is a brand name requirement for a Rohde & Schwarz VNA due to integration needs with existing NIST laboratory equipment, personnel training, and to maintain continuity of antenna calibration services. Demo models will be considered if manufacturer warranty and calibration services are included. Specific NIST local instructions for marking, packing, and electronic billing via IPP apply.