External Cavity Diode Lasers
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 U.S. Department of Commerce, National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is conducting market research through a Sources Sought / Request for Information (RFI) to identify providers of External Cavity Diode Lasers. This RFI aims to determine industry capability for supplying 780 nm and 776 nm lasers for Rydberg measurements and high-power laser imaging at the NIST Boulder, CO campus. Responses are due February 18, 2026.
Scope of Requirement
NIST requires two specific external cavity diode lasers: a 780 nm laser and a 776 nm laser, along with associated modules. These lasers will support Rydberg measurements in rubidium and cesium atoms and enable imaging of high-power lasers using excited states of Rubidium atoms. Key specifications include precise tuning ranges, output power, linewidth, beam quality, optical isolation, fiber coupling, software-based atomic reference locking, and integrated control electronics. Additional requirements include Saturation Spectroscopy Modules, Fiber-Coupling Ports, Auto-Lock Software, and Fiber Patch Cables. Anticipated delivery is four weeks after receipt of order (ARO).
Information Requested from Industry
NIST invites industry sources to provide information to help shape the acquisition strategy. Responses should include:
- Company details (UEI, name, address, POC, website, SAM.gov registration).
- Validation of company size status under NAICS 325120 (Industrial Gas Manufacturing), in addition to the primary NAICS 334516 (Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing).
- Suggestions for improving the attached Specifications document to enhance clarity and competitiveness.
- Proposed evaluation factors for a forthcoming competitive acquisition.
- Standard commercial pricing information (catalog pricing) for similar products.
- An estimate for the Specification requirements (no quotes).
- Confirmation of compliance with FAR clause 52.219-14, Limitations on Subcontracting, if a total small business set-aside.
- Details of any GSA Multiple Award Schedule or other federal contracts.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Request for Information (RFI)
- Set-Aside: None specified (for market research purposes)
- Response Due: February 18, 2026, by 21:00 UTC
- Published: February 11, 2026
- Place of Performance: NIST Boulder, CO
Submission Details
Responses, limited to ten pages (excluding cover page and pricing), should be submitted in Microsoft Word or PDF format (12-point font) to Lia Arthofer (lia.arthofer@nist.gov). Do not include proprietary, classified, confidential, or sensitive information. This notice is for market research only and does not constitute a solicitation or obligation by NIST.