Sources Sought - Frequency Comb Lasers
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 for Frequency Comb Lasers to identify potential and eligible business firms and determine the method of acquisition. This is not a Request for Quotation (RFQ). NIST is seeking information on vendors capable of providing two specific ultrafast fiber laser models. Responses are due by June 17, 2026.
Scope of Work
NIST requires two ultrafast fiber lasers: one 780 nm model and one 1560 nm model. Both lasers must meet detailed technical specifications, including a 100 MHz repetition rate, 1560 nm oscillator center wavelength, and a 1 MHz tuning range with low-noise locking mechanisms. The 780 nm model requires selectable free space output at 780 nm (>250 mW) or 1560 nm (>500 mW) with variable power split, while the 1560 nm model requires free space output at 1560 nm (>500 mW). Both models must include at least three auxiliary PM fiber outputs at 1560 nm, an electro-optic actuator for locking, and active temperature stabilization. Equipment must be new, performance-checked by the manufacturer, and delivered by January 1, 2027, to NIST-Boulder or NIST-Gaithersburg.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Market Research
- Set-Aside: Potential Small Business Set-Aside (all categories considered). NIST will determine if at least two qualified small businesses can fulfill the requirement.
- NAICS: 334516 – Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing (Small Business Size Standard: 1,000 employees)
- Response Due: June 17, 2026, 11:00 PM ET
- Published: June 5, 2026
- Delivery Deadline: No later than January 1, 2027
Submission Requirements
Interested organizations should submit an electronic capability statement, limited to five (5) pages or less, including:
- Company Profile (number of employees, office location(s), UEI, CAGE Code).
- Name of company providing the product.
- Name of manufacturer and country of origin for the product.
- Specification sheets and examples of products meeting the attached requirements.
- Typical lead time for delivery, installation, and training.
- Identification and verification of the company’s small business status.
- Any other relevant information for NIST's market research.
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.
Evaluation
Responses will be utilized to determine potential small business set-aside opportunities and the overall method of acquisition. This announcement does not commit the Government to award a contract.
Contact Information
Primary Point of Contact: Daniel Kent, daniel.kent@nist.gov, 303-497-6533.