NIGP 20458: Modems, External, Data Communications

NIGP 20458 Modems, External, Data Communications is an Item code that covers cellular and wireless data transmission equipment state and local governments procure for remote monitoring, network infrastructure, and distributed site connectivity. Recent state and local solicitations under this code show demand for external modems in SCADA systems, utility infrastructure, and communications networks. The St. Johns River Water Management District issued an Invitation for Bids (IFB) on April 8, 2026 to procure approximately 100 Semtech RV55 cellular modems with an estimated annual spend of $35,000 over a three-year initial term and two optional one-year renewals; the bids closed April 22, 2026. Water districts, utility agencies, city departments, and transit authorities dominate the issuing-body mix, typically sourcing modems as part of larger system upgrades or ongoing infrastructure maintenance rather than as standalone procurements. School districts and transportation planning organizations occasionally solicit external modems as components within broader technology or network-infrastructure projects.

Activity under this code concentrates in Texas, Florida, and Georgia. The City of Flowery Branch, Georgia posted an RFP on May 13, 2026 for SCADA System Equipment Upgrade, which includes cellular-based remote telemetry units with upgraded hardware and cellular modems as part of a water-system monitoring project with proposals due June 30, 2026. The Texas Department of Information Resources (DIR) posted an indefinite-quantity, multiple-award contract on May 26, 2026 for cellular, wireless, and satellite services including related equipment and infrastructure for the Texas Agency Network (TEX-AN), with responses due July 23, 2026 and a bidders conference held June 25, 2026. Modems are most commonly embedded within SCADA upgrades, remote telemetry installations, and wireless communications contracts rather than appearing as independent line items, reflecting their role as enabling components in utility, transportation, and public-works infrastructure modernization.