Sources Sought - Vector Network Analyzer Extender Head Drivers
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 for Vector Network Analyzer Extender Head Drivers. This market research aims to identify qualified vendors, including small businesses, capable of supplying three units with specific technical requirements. Responses are due by April 29, 2026.
Purpose
This is a market research tool, not a Request for Quotation (RFQ), to determine potential and eligible business firms for the product. NIST will use the results to assess the method of acquisition and identify potential Small Business Set-aside opportunities. All small business categories will be considered, and if at least two qualified small businesses are identified, the acquisition may be set aside. NIST is seeking responses from all responsible sources, including large and small businesses.
Scope of Work
NIST requires three Vector Network Analyzer Extender Head Drivers with detailed technical specifications. Key requirements include:
- Frequency Range: 100 kHz to 22 GHz
- Dynamic Range: 133 dB at 10 Hz IFBW
- Output Power: -60 dBm to 15 dBm
- Compatibility: VDI extender heads with attenuators in WR6, WR5, and WR3
- Features: CW frequency accuracy of 1 ppm, 1 Hz frequency resolution, 1 mdB rms trace noise at 3 kHz IFBW, and no external couplers.
- Delivery: No later than 24 weeks after order, with acceptance at NIST Boulder within 7 business days.
- Warranty: A 1-year base manufacturer warranty covering labor, parts, travel, and return costs.
Requirements for Responses
Interested businesses should submit electronic capability statements, limited to five pages, including:
- Company Profile: Number of employees, office location(s), Unique Entity Identifier (UEI), and CAGE Code.
- Product Provider: Name of the company providing the product.
- Manufacturer & Origin: Name of the manufacturer and country of origin.
- Specifications: Specification sheets and examples meeting the attached requirements.
- Lead Time: Typical lead time, including installation and training.
- Small Business Status: Identification and verification of small business status.
- Other Relevant Information: Any additional information for NIST's consideration. Vendor requirements include possessing an Export Control Classification Number (ECCN) and an "Active" UEI on SAM.gov at the time of award.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Market Research
- Set-Aside: To be determined based on market research (potential Small Business Set-aside)
- NAICS: 334515 – Instrument Manufacturing for Measuring and Testing Electricity and Electrical Signals (Size Standard: 750 employees)
- Response Due: April 29, 2026, 11:00 PM MT
- Published: April 22, 2026
Additional Notes
This announcement does not commit the Government to award a contract. The Government will not pay for information received. The place of performance for acceptance is NIST Boulder, CO. Shipping addresses include NIST-Boulder and NIST-Gaithersburg.
Contact: Daniel Kent, daniel.kent@nist.gov, 303-497-6533.