Sources Sought - Ultrastable Femtosecond Fiber Lasers
ID: NB672010-25-02218Type: Sources Sought
Overview

Buyer

COMMERCE, DEPARTMENT OFNATIONAL INSTITUTE OF STANDARDS AND TECHNOLOGYDEPT OF COMMERCE NISTGAITHERSBURG, MD, 20899, USA

NAICS

Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing (334516)

PSC

LABORATORY EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES (6640)
Timeline
    Description

    The Department of Commerce, specifically the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), is seeking quotations for the procurement of two ultrastable femtosecond fiber lasers under solicitation number NB672010-25-02218. The primary objective is to acquire a 780 nm ultrafast fiber laser and a 1560 nm ultrafast fiber laser, both of which must meet specific technical specifications for synchronization with external RF and optical references, crucial for advancing communications technology research. This procurement is vital for enhancing capabilities in RF generation and detection exceeding 300 GHz, with the expectation that all equipment will be new and performance-verified by the manufacturer. Interested vendors should submit their quotations via email to Daniel Kent at daniel.kent@nist.gov by the specified deadline, ensuring compliance with all applicable government regulations and requirements.

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    The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) seeks to procure two ultrastable femtosecond fiber lasers for the Communications Technology Laboratory. The primary requirement is to synchronize these lasers to external RF and optical references for RF generation and detection exceeding 300 GHz. The first item specified is a 780 nm ultrafast fiber laser, with precise characteristics such as a 100 MHz repetition rate, capability for dual wavelength output (780 nm and 1560 nm), high power, and long-term phase locking features. Only one unit is required. The second item is a 1560 nm ultrafast fiber laser, with similar specifications focusing primarily on wavelength and power output, with one unit also needed. The document outlines various logistical considerations, including shipping details to NIST-Boulder by October 1, 2025, and emphasizes that all equipment must be new and performance-verified by the manufacturer. There are no training, installation, or inspection requirements mentioned, indicating a straightforward procurement process. Overall, the purpose of this RFP is to acquire sophisticated laser technology essential for advancements in communications technology research.
    The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) seeks to procure ultrastable femtosecond fiber lasers through an RFP issued by the Communications Technology Laboratory. The proposal specifically demands two types of fiber lasers: one operating at 780 nm and another at 1560 nm, each requiring precise specifications for performance. The 780 nm laser must have a repetition rate of 100 MHz, a tuning range of 1 MHz, and output power of at least 250 mW at 780 nm or 500 mW at 1560 nm. Similarly, the 1560 nm laser needs to meet equivalent repetition rates and power requirements. Additional specifications outline features such as auxiliary outputs, temperature stabilization, and low-noise locking mechanisms. The procurement includes delivery requirements, with a deadline set for October 1, 2025, and emphasizes the necessity for new equipment checked for operational performance prior to shipment. The document aims to support NIST's advance in RF generation and detection technology, reflecting the government’s ongoing investment in high-precision communication technologies and standards. The overall goal is to enhance synchronization capabilities with external references in advanced laser applications.
    The federal document outlines a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for the procurement of two specific fiber lasers, requested under solicitation number NB672010-25-02218. It includes essential instructions for potential vendors regarding the bid process, emphasizing that funding must be available before any awards are made. The Government expects a firm fixed price alongside technical capability to meet the outlined specifications. Two line items describe the lasers required: a 780 nm Fiber Laser and a 10560 nm Fiber Laser, with the solicitation being open to unrestricted competition. Offerors are instructed to submit their quotations by email, ensuring all necessary certifications and representations are included. Evaluation criteria focus on technical capability and price, with awards based on the lowest price that meets technical requirements. The document specifies clauses and provisions applicable to the acquisition, covering compliance with Government regulations, delivery terms, and contractor responsibilities. Additionally, it outlines conditions that might impact operational status, billing procedures, and requirements for submissions. This RFQ represents the federal government's structured approach to obtaining specialized equipment efficiently while adhering to legal and operational standards.
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