NIST has issued a Sources Sought Notice (NIST-SS26-CHIPS-20) to identify potential sources for high-vacuum motorized stages. These stages are crucial for a new experimental apparatus designed for non-destructive measurement of computer chip features using short extreme-ultraviolet (EUV) light. The requirement includes a "Calibration Set" of three rotary stages and a "Measurement Set" of up to six stages for precise positioning of samples. All stages must be compatible with a high-vacuum environment (below 10^(-6) Torr) and require specific electronics, encoders, and LabView-compatible software. The notice details technical specifications for each set of stages and individual axes, along with requirements for computer-aided drawings, controllers, and vacuum feedthroughs. Respondents are asked to provide company information, product technical specifications, customization capabilities, manufacturing location, NAICS code status, available services, standard terms, pricing, and federal contract information. This is a market research notice, not a solicitation, and aims to gather information to inform future procurement decisions.
NIST-SS26-CHIPS-21 is a Request for Information (RFI)/Sources Sought Notice (SSN) from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to identify potential providers of an ultra-high vacuum (UHV) sample backout chamber. This equipment is crucial for the CHIPS R&D project to test materials for UHV compatibility, ensuring detectors meet the needs of the U.S. semiconductor industry. The notice, due December 9, 2025, is for market research to determine an acquisition strategy and is not a solicitation. NIST seeks company summaries, including size status under NAICS 334516, and active sam.gov registration. Responses should be submitted via email and not exceed ten pages. This RFI does not guarantee a contract award and NIST will not respond to questions regarding the market research results.