Frequency Comb System

Quick Summary

The U.S. Department of Commerce, National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is conducting a Sources Sought / Request for Information (RFI) to identify providers capable of supplying a Frequency Comb System for its Boulder, CO site. This market research aims to determine industry capabilities and inform the appropriate acquisition strategy for a system designed to lock four lasers at specific wavelengths. Responses are due by June 15, 2026.

Scope of Requirement

NIST requires a comprehensive frequency comb system to lock four lasers with wavelengths of 776 nm, 780 nm, 960 nm, and 1260 nm. The system must include:

• Optical Frequency Comb: 1560 nm center wavelength, ±2 MHz comb mode spacing tuning, >50 nm spectral width, >10 mW output per port, SC/APC-PM output, 10 MHz RF reference (1E-10 stability), and internal beat detection.
• Frequency Extension Base Module: 700–1500 nm wavelength range, multi-channel amplification, >4 channel compatibility, FC/APC connectors.
• Four Frequency Extension Channels: Dedicated units for each specified laser wavelength (776 nm, 780 nm, 960 nm, 1260 nm), with spectral filters and beat detection.
• Four Laser Locking Modules: Electronics to generate error signals from beat detection, SMA output.
• Enclosure and Control: 3U 19” Rack size, Ethernet, RS-232, USB, front panel, full remote control (Python/MATLAB compatible), housing all components.
• Frequency Counter: At least 4 channels, with no dead time.

Anticipated Contract Details

• Period of Performance: Delivery, installation, and training are anticipated seven months after receipt of order.
• Warranty: Required for 12 months, covering labor, parts, and travel.
• Installation & Training: Vendor technician on-site for setup, start-up, and turnkey installation. Training for two personnel on operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and safety, with provided materials.
• Vendor Requirements: Must possess an Export Control Classification Number (ECCN) and an active Unique Entity Identification (UEI) registered on SAM.gov at the time of award.

Information Requested from Industry

NIST invites interested sources to submit responses by the closing date, including:

• Company Information: Cover page with Notice ID, title, date, UEI, company name, address, website, POC, validation of company size status under NAICS 334516, and SAM.gov registration status.
• Technical Feedback: Suggestions for improving the draft requirements/specifications document for clarity and competitiveness.
• Evaluation Factors: Suggested evaluation factors for a forthcoming competitive acquisition.
• Pricing Information: Standard commercial pricing (catalog pricing) and an optional estimate for the draft requirements (no proposals).
• Small Business Capability: If a small business, indicate compliance with FAR clause 52.219-14 (Limitations on Subcontracting) if the acquisition were a total small business set-aside, with supporting explanation.
• Existing Contracts: Details of GSA Multiple Award Schedule or other federal contracts under which NIST could place an order.

Contract & Timeline

• Type: Sources Sought / Request for Information (RFI)
• NAICS Code: 334516 – Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing
• Set-Aside: None specified (market research to determine acquisition strategy)
• Response Due: June 15, 2026, 8:00 PM ET
• Published: June 3, 2026

Additional Notes

This notice is for market research purposes only and is not a solicitation or commitment by NIST. Responses will help assess alternatives and may lead to a future solicitation. Proprietary, classified, or sensitive information should not be included. NIST reserves the right to follow up with respondents. Teaming arrangements require information for each entity.