Sources Sought - 12 GHz Vector Signal Generators
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) is conducting a Sources Sought to identify qualified vendors capable of providing 12 GHz Vector Signal Generators for its facility in Boulder, CO. This market research aims to determine potential and eligible business firms, including those that could fulfill a Small Business Set-aside opportunity. NIST requires two (2) precision vector signal generators with specific technical capabilities. Responses are due by June 17, 2026.
Scope of Work
NIST seeks two (2) new 12 GHz Vector Signal Generators with quadrature modulated output (I/Q) and a high dynamic range (-110 dBm to +15 dBm) for pulsed microwave frequencies from 100 MHz to 12 GHz. Key technical requirements include:
- Minimum 500 MHz I/Q modulator bandwidth.
- Phase-locking capability using a 1 GHz (or higher) reference clock.
- Small physical size (19" by 1U high, <15 lb) for rack mounting, as individual units.
- Specific electrical specifications covering frequency range, output power, pulse generation, spectral purity, phase noise, setting time, and connectivity (SMA, Ethernet, USB).
- Operating temperature of 0-40 C with a short warm-up time (< 15 minutes).
- Equipment must be new, with a full manufacturer's warranty and U.S.-based service. NIST will inspect and test delivered parts within 14 days of delivery.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Market Research
- Agency: National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), Department of Commerce
- Set-Aside: Potential Small Business Set-aside (all categories considered)
- NAICS: 334515 – Instrument Manufacturing for Measuring and Testing Electricity and Electrical Signals (Size Standard: 750 employees)
- Response Due: June 17, 2026, 11:00 PM ET
- Published: June 8, 2026
Submission Requirements
Interested organizations should submit electronic capability statements, limited to five (5) pages or less, including:
- Company Profile (employees, locations, UEI, CAGE Code).
- Name of company providing and manufacturing the product, including country of origin.
- Specification sheets and examples of products meeting the attached requirements.
- Typical lead time for delivery, installation, and training.
- Identification and verification of the company’s small business status.
- Any other relevant information for requirement development. Vendors must possess an Export Control Classification Number (ECCN) and an active UEI on SAM.gov.
Additional Notes
This is not a Request for Quotation (RFQ) and does not commit the Government to an award. The information gathered will inform NIST's acquisition strategy, potentially leading to a competitive procurement on SAM.gov.