Electro-Optic Probe System
ID: NB672020-25-01122Type: 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

ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC PROPERTIES MEASURING AND TESTING INSTRUMENTS (6625)

Original Source

https://sam.gov/opp/04ba1b049655459a838022afd86c646d/view
Timeline
    Description

    The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is seeking quotations for the acquisition of an Electro-Optic Probe System, specifically brand name Kapteos supplies, which include optoelectronic converters and electro-optic electric field probes designed for low-k media applications. This procurement aims to enhance the laboratory's electromagnetic field measurement capabilities, requiring equipment that meets specific technical specifications, including a frequency range of 1 GHz to 12 GHz and compliance with federal procurement regulations. Interested vendors must submit their quotations electronically by the specified deadline, ensuring adherence to the outlined requirements, including firm fixed pricing and delivery within 20 weeks after receipt of order. For further inquiries, potential offerors can contact Clifford Nicholson at clifford.nicholson@nist.gov or Daniel Kent at daniel.kent@nist.gov.

    Files
    Title
    Posted
    Amendment 1 - RFQ - NB672020-25-01122 Electro-Optic Probe System 1.pdf
    Amendment 1 to the Request for Quote (RFQ) NB672020-25-01122 pertains to the acquisition of an Electro-Optic Probe System by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). This amendment, dated June 23, 2025, introduces revisions to the original RFQ by adding item numbers 0003-0009 to align with updated specifications. The document is concise, focusing solely on the modifications made to the RFQ to ensure it meets the project requirements. Daniel Kent, the Contracting Officer at NIST, has authorized the changes, demonstrating an ongoing process of refinement in procurement practices within the federal government context. The amendment serves as a critical update for potential vendors responding to the RFQ, ensuring clarity and adherence to new specifications during the bidding process.
    Atch A - Specifications.pdf
    The Communications Technology Laboratory’s Electromagnetic Fields Group is requesting proposals for an Electro-Optic Probe System. The system must include an all-dielectric electro-optic field strength probe covering the frequency range of 1 GHz to 12 GHz, equipped with optical connections and an electro-optic converter. Specific items requested include various types of electro-optic probes, an optoelectronic converter, a probe holder, an E-field applicator, and calibration services. Each item has defined specifications regarding frequency range, sensitivity, damage thresholds, dimensions, and additional features such as connectivity options and user interfaces. Vendors are expected to provide shipping to the designated NIST-Boulder address, with delivery required within 20 weeks after receipt of order. The proposals should account for possible vendor site visits, warranty terms, and training for the operation of the equipment. The document emphasizes the importance of adherence to specified requirements to ensure accurate quotations and effective functionality. This RFP illustrates the laboratory's commitment to enhancing its electromagnetic field measurement capabilities, catering to both low-k and high-k media applications.
    Atch B - BN Justification.pdf
    This document outlines a brand name justification for a procurement request concerning Kapteos components (NB672020-25-01122) needed by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). The Electromagnetic Fields Group requires specific Kapteos electro-optic field strength probes capable of covering a frequency range from 1 GHz to 12 GHz. These probes are exclusively suitable for their needs, given their all-dielectric design, optical connections, and compatibility with existing equipment already in use. The memorandum emphasizes that using alternative brands would necessitate costly modifications, adjustments to procedures, and staff retraining, thereby posing an undue burden on the government. The document concludes with validation from Clifford Nicholson, the contracting officer, endorsing the necessity of this procurement to support ongoing project measurements efficiently.
    RFQ NB672020-25-01122 Electro-Optic Probe System Rev 1 - 23 June 2025.pdf
    The document is a solicitation for commercial items, specifically requesting quotations for BRAND NAME Kapteos supplies for the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). The solicitation (RFQ number NB672020-25-01122) outlines the requirement for new equipment, including optoelectronic converters and various electro-optic electric field probes, all from the Kapteos brand. It specifies that offers should be submitted electronically by a certain deadline and must include clear pricing and technical descriptions of the proposed items. Acceptance will occur at NIST's Boulder, Colorado location based on government inspections, which will ensure that all items meet specified requirements. The delivery terms are FOB Destination, with a deadline of 20 weeks after receipt of order (ARO). The evaluation of bids will follow a Lowest Price Technically Acceptable (LPTA) approach, focusing first on price before assessing technical capability. To be eligible, offerors must provide a Unique Entity Identifier and comply with various government regulations, including clauses on labor and procurement standards. This document serves as a comprehensive guide for suppliers to prepare competitive bids aligned with federal procurement protocols.
    RFQ NB672020-25-01122 Electro-Optic Probe System.pdf
    The document serves as a combined synopsis/solicitation for a Request for Quote (RFQ) from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) for brand name Kapteos supplies, specifically an optoelectronic converter and a transverse electro-optic electric field probe intended for low-k media. It emphasizes that all quotations must include firm fixed pricing, technical specifications, and compliance with FAR regulations. The RFQ is unrestricted, inviting responses from all businesses while adhering to a 20-week delivery timeline. Essential subjects covered include submission guidelines, inspection and acceptance procedures at NIST, and payment terms. The evaluation will prioritize technical capability followed by price reasonableness, utilizing a low-price technically acceptable method for award decisions. Any deviation from terms and conditions must be justified. The RFQ also mandates that contractors must maintain updated registrations in the System for Award Management (SAM), ensuring compliance with federal regulations and providing detailed documentation with bids. Ultimately, this solicitation underscores the government’s need for specific technological supplies while ensuring rigorous standards for procurement processes.
    Specifications.pdf
    The Communications Technology Laboratory’s Electromagnetic Fields Group has issued a request for proposals (RFP) for an electro-optic field strength probe system. This system should operate within the frequency range of 1 GHz to 12 GHz, utilizing an all-dielectric design with optical connections and an electro-optic converter. The procurement includes specific items such as an optoelectronic converter, various electro-optic probes for low and high-k media, a probe holder, an E-field applicator, and calibration services. Each item has detailed specifications, including output noise density, E-field sensitivity, damage thresholds, and connection requirements. The items are intended to enhance the laboratory's capabilities in measuring electromagnetic fields accurately. Key logistical details include a shipping address at NIST-Boulder and delivery expected within 20 weeks after receipt of order. Additionally, training will be provided virtually, and warranty options are included. The document outlines necessary considerations for potential vendors, indicating that thorough compliance with the specified requirements is essential for accurate quoting.
    Lifecycle
    Title
    Type
    Electro-Optic Probe System 1
    Combined Synopsis/Solicitation
    Electro-Optic Probe System
    Currently viewing
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