WR4 On-Wafer Probes
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 market research through a Sources Sought notice to identify vendors capable of providing four WR4 On-Wafer Probes. These probes are required for load-pull measurements at 220 GHz and must meet specific technical specifications. This is not a request for quotation, but rather a tool to determine potential eligible business firms and the appropriate acquisition method, including potential small business set-aside opportunities. Responses are due by January 26, 2026.
Scope of Work
NIST requires four WR4 Waveguide Probes with an operating frequency range of 170 to 260 GHz. Key specifications include a 50 um GSG tip configuration, integrated bias tee, no micro-coax on probe tips transition, and a probe-tip return loss less than -4 dB max from 100 MHz to 100 GHz. The requirement also covers shipping to NIST-Boulder and NIST-Gaithersburg, with considerations for installation, training, warranty, and calibration.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Market Research
- Agency: National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), Department of Commerce
- NAICS: 334515 – Instrument Manufacturing for Measuring and Testing Electricity and Electrical Signals (Small Business Size Standard: 750 employees)
- Set-Aside: Market research to determine potential Small Business Set-aside opportunities. All small business categories will be considered.
- Response Due: January 26, 2026, 7:00 PM ET
- Published: January 15, 2026
Vendor Requirements & Submission
Interested firms should submit electronic capability statements, limited to five pages. Submissions must include:
- Company Profile (employees, office locations, UEI, CAGE Code).
- Name of company providing the product.
- Manufacturer's name and 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 small business status.
- Any other relevant information. Vendors must possess an Export Control Classification Number (ECCN) and an "Active" UEI on SAM.gov at the time of award.
Additional Notes
This is solely for market research; it is not an RFQ and does not commit the Government to an award. No quotes will be accepted. The information is DRAFT and subject to change. NIST will not pay for information received. The results will inform whether a competitive procurement will be conducted, potentially as a small business set-aside if at least two qualified small businesses are identified.