O-band Optical Filters
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 National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Quantum Information Group is conducting market research through a Sources Sought notice to identify potential sources for O-band tunable optical filters. These filters are required for developing new quantum networking schemes and protocols, specifically for studying data transmission in the O-band wavelength range. The place of performance is Gaithersburg, MD. Responses are requested as soon as possible, preferably before May 21, 2026.
Scope of Work
NIST requires two quantities each of two types of O-band tunable optical filters, both covering the wavelength range of 1260 nm to 1300 nm. Key specifications include:
- Line Item 0001 (Quantity 2): Pass bandwidths of 0.15 nm or narrower.
- Line Item 0002 (Quantity 2): Pass bandwidths of 0.25 nm or narrower.
- Common Specifications: Very low insertion loss (typical 1.6 dB, worst-case 2.0 dB), polarization-dependent loss not exceeding 0.25 dB, out-of-band suppression of 45 dB or better, and compatibility with SMF-28 FC/APC fibers.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Market Research
- Set-Aside: None specified
- Product Service Code: 6030 (Fiber Optic Devices)
- Response Due: May 21, 2026, 4:00 p.m. ET (preferably sooner)
- Questions Due: May 18, 2026, 12:00 p.m. ET
- Published: May 6, 2026
Response Requirements
Respondents should provide:
- Company name, address, contact information, and UEI (if SAM registered).
- Details of equipment that meets the requirements, including manufacturer, product details, country of manufacture (US or other), and reseller status.
- Identification of any unmet specifications or instructions, with suggestions for improvement.
- Small or other than small business status for NAICS 6030, and suggestions for alternative NAICS codes if applicable.
- Standard terms and conditions of sale (delivery, FOB, warranty).
- Identification of any existing Federal Supply Schedule contracts.
- Any other valuable information for NIST's market research.
Additional Notes
This notice is for market research only and does not constitute a commitment to issue a solicitation or award a contract. Proprietary information should not be included in responses. Responses are limited to 3 pages and should be submitted via email to the primary and secondary points of contact. Registration in SAM is required for any future award.