Sources Sought - 0.5mm Calibration Kit
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), under the Department of Commerce, has issued a Sources Sought notice to identify potential vendors capable of providing a 0.5mm Calibration Kit. This market research aims to determine the availability of eligible firms, including small businesses, before determining the acquisition method. Responses are due by June 17, 2026.
Scope of Work
NIST requires a 0.5 mm Offset Short Primary Calibration Kit and related components. The kit includes:
- Precision Offset Short Calibration Kit (1 EACH): Disassembled, with at least 12 metrology-grade offset short calibration artifacts (male/female) designed for 5 GHz to 260 GHz range, including measured mechanical data and k=2 uncertainties.
- Assembly of Offset Short Components (1 JOB): Assembly of the primary kit after NIST performs dimensional metrology.
- Precision Short Open Load Kit (1 KIT): Including lowband loads, offset opens, flush shorts (male/female, 0.5 mm), and relevant torque wrenches.
- Spare Components for Dimensioning (1 SET): 0.5 mm connector type spare parts.
- Test Port Adapters (1 SET): Assembled, metrology grade (1 male, 1 female).
NIST will provide dimensional metrology for the primary kit before returning it for assembly. Delivery involves partial shipments to NIST-Boulder and NIST-Gaithersburg. Vendors must possess an Export Control Classification Number (ECCN) and an active UEI registered on SAM.gov at the time of award.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought (Market Research)
- Set-Aside: To be determined; potential Small Business Set-Aside if at least two qualified small businesses are identified. Responses from all business sizes are encouraged.
- NAICS: 334515 – Instrument Manufacturing for Measuring and Testing Electricity and Electrical Signals (Size Standard: 750 employees).
- Response Due: June 17, 2026, 23:00 ET
- Published: June 5, 2026
Submission Requirements
Interested organizations should submit electronic capability statements (limited to five pages) including:
- Company Profile (employees, locations, UEI, CAGE Code).
- Name of company providing the product.
- Manufacturer name and country of origin.
- Specification sheets and product examples meeting requirements.
- Typical lead time for delivery, installation, and training.
- Verification of small business status.
- Any other relevant information for market research.
Additional Notes
This is not a Request for Quotation (RFQ) and does not commit the Government to a contract. NIST will not pay for information received. The results will inform the acquisition strategy and potential future solicitation. Contact: Daniel Kent, daniel.kent@nist.gov, 303-497-6533.