Multi-Channel 12 GHz Microwave Synthesizer
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 qualified vendors for a Multi-Channel 12 GHz Microwave Synthesizer. This effort aims to gather information on potential suppliers, including small businesses and U.S. manufacturers, to inform a future acquisition strategy. Responses are due by April 24, 2026.
Purpose
This Sources Sought is a market research tool, not a request for quotation or proposal. NIST seeks to identify eligible business firms capable of providing a multi-channel 12 GHz microwave synthesizer. The information gathered will help determine the method of acquisition, including potential Small Business Set-aside opportunities, and finalize minimum specifications. NIST is interested in responses from all responsible sources, including large and small businesses, particularly those manufacturing the product in the U.S.
Scope of Work
NIST requires one (1) multi-channel microwave synthesizer. The device must be a low-phase noise synthesizer capable of producing five independent signals.
- Three (3) channels must generate sinusoidal output from 10 MHz to 12 GHz.
- Two (2) channels must generate sinusoidal output from 10 MHz to 6 GHz. Key attributes for these channels include SMA connectors, 50 Ohm nominal load, output power from -10 to 15 dBm, frequency step size at most 0.001 Hz, and switching speeds at most 500 microseconds. Specific SSB Phase noise requirements are detailed, such as less than -90 dBc/Hz @ 100 Hz offset at 6 GHz. The synthesizer must also support list-based scans of frequency and amplitude and include a dedicated analog modulation port.
Key Requirements
The synthesizer must feature a 10/100 MHz reference input/output, operate on standard US 110 V AC (consuming less than 100 W), and function under normal laboratory conditions (25 C). It should be programmable via USB and/or SPI, be 19" rack mountable (less than 3U high), and include calibration certification. Control via a graphical user interface is required, with a front panel interface not being necessary.
Response Requirements
Interested organizations should submit electronic capability statements, limited to four (4) pages or less, to deionne.jones@nist.gov. Responses must include:
- Name of the company providing and manufacturing the product.
- Country of origin or manufacture.
- Spec/data sheets and examples demonstrating experience.
- Typical lead time.
- Any other relevant information for developing minimum specifications. Proprietary information should be clearly marked.
Contract & Timeline
- Opportunity Type: Sources Sought (Market Research)
- NAICS Code: 334516 - Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing (Small Business Size Standard: 1,000 employees)
- Response Due: April 24, 2026, 4:00 PM Z
- Published Date: April 14, 2026
- Set-Aside: None specified (market research to determine potential set-aside, all small business categories considered)
Additional Notes
This notice 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 details provided are DRAFT and subject to change.