Sources Sought - Vector Network Analyzer Extender Heads
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 market research effort to identify potential vendors capable of providing Vector Network Analyzer Extender Heads and a Calibration Kit. This is not a Request for Quotation (RFQ) but aims to determine eligible firms and potential small business set-aside opportunities. Responses are due by March 26, 2026.
Scope of Work
NIST seeks information on vendors that can supply:
- WR6.5 Tx/Rx VNA Extender Head Modules (2 EACH) with a bandwidth of 110 GHz to 170 GHz, 120 dB dynamic range, 0.25 dB magnitude stability, 4 deg phase stability, 13 dBm max test port output power, 30 dB directivity, and an integrated micrometer driven output attenuator.
- WR6.5 Calibration Kit (1 EACH), including 2 short circuit, 2 matched load, 1 straight waveguide, and 1 quarter wave shim.
Vendor Requirements
Vendors must possess an Export Control Classification Number (ECCN) and an Active Unique Entity Identification Number (UEI) on SAM.gov at the time of award. A 1-year base manufacturer warranty covering labor, parts, and travel is required. NIST will perform on-site inspection and acceptance in Boulder, CO, which may take 14 business days post-delivery.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Market Research
- NAICS: 334515 – Instrument Manufacturing for Measuring and Testing Electricity and Electrical Signals (Small Business Size Standard: 750 employees)
- Set-Aside: All Small Business Set-aside categories will be considered if at least two qualified small businesses are identified. NIST encourages responses from all responsible sources, including large and small businesses (SB, SDB, WOSB, HUBZone, SDVOSB, VOSB).
- Response Due: March 26, 2026, 11:00 PM ET
- Published: March 19, 2026
Submission Requirements
Interested organizations should submit electronic capability statements, limited to five pages, including:
- Company Profile (employees, office location(s), UEI, Cage Code).
- Name of company providing the product.
- Manufacturer's name and country of origin.
- Specification sheets and examples of products meeting requirements.
- Typical lead time, including installation and training.
- Identification and verification of small business status.
- Any other relevant information for market research.
Additional Notes
This is for planning purposes only and does not commit the Government to award a contract. No solicitation is currently available, and the Government will not pay for information received. The results will inform future acquisition methods.