Sources Sought - Vector Signal Generator
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 Sources Sought market research to identify vendors capable of providing a Vector Signal Generator (VSG) and Additive White Gaussian Noise Generation (AWGNG) equipment. This is not a request for quotation, but aims to determine potential acquisition methods and small business set-aside opportunities. Responses are due June 17, 2026.
Scope of Requirement
NIST seeks one (1) Vector Signal Generator and one (1) Additive White Gaussian Noise Generation (AWGNG) system. The Vector Signal Generator must feature 2 output channels (3.5mm or compatible), a maximum frequency of 20 GHz, channel modulation bandwidth greater than 100 MHz, spectral purity (harmonics) less than -30 dBc, phase noise less than -130 dBc at 1 GHz, and an integrated screen. The AWGNG requires software or hardware capability to generate Additive White Gaussian Noise. All equipment must be new, covered by the original manufacturer's full warranty, and serviced by a U.S.-based organization. Ancillary services include a 3-year warranty and a 3-year calibration plan with a manufacturer's certificate. Delivery is required to NIST-Boulder (325 Broadway, Boulder, CO 80305) or NIST-Gaithersburg (100 Bureau Dr, Gaithersburg MD 20899), specifically to Building 3 RM 3A-119.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Market Research
- NAICS: 334515 – Instrument Manufacturing for Measuring and Testing Electricity and Electrical Signals (Size Standard: 750 employees)
- Set-Aside: Potential Small Business Set-Aside (all categories considered). Responses from all business sizes (large and small, including SB, SDB, WOSB, HUBZone, SDVOSB, VOSB) are encouraged.
- Response Due: June 17, 2026, by 11:00 PM ET
- Published: June 5, 2026
Response Requirements
Interested firms should submit electronic capability statements, limited to five (5) pages. Responses must include:
- Company Profile (employees, office location(s), Unique Entity Identifier (UEI), CAGE Code).
- Name of company providing the product.
- Name of manufacturer and country of origin.
- Specification sheets and examples of products meeting the attached specifications.
- Typical lead time for delivery, installation, and any necessary training.
- Verification of the company’s small business status.
- Any other relevant information for market research. Company sales brochures or marketing packages will not be considered.
Additional Notes
This is solely for market research and planning purposes; it is not a request for quotation and does not guarantee a future contract award. The Government will not pay for information submitted. The results will inform NIST's acquisition strategy, potentially leading to a competitive procurement on sam.gov.