High-Performance Optical Atomic Clocks

The National Institute of Standards and Technology seeks two high-performance optical atomic clocks for integration into its UTC(NIST) timescale generation facility in Boulder, Colorado, with quotations due August 21, 2026. This is a Request for Quotation (RFQ) with no set-aside.

Place of performance is Boulder, Colorado (325 Broadway). The NAICS code is 334519, Other Measuring and Controlling Device Manufacturing; PSC is 6640, Laboratory Equipment and Supplies.

Each system must demonstrate frequency discipline documented by at least two published research studies and output nominal frequencies at 5 MHz, 10 MHz, 100 MHz, or 1 GHz via SMA-female connectors with signal amplitudes of at least +5 dBm. Systems must provide stabilized continuous-wave laser output coupled in single-mode polarization-maintaining fiber with FC/APC connectors, wavelengths between 1000–1625 nm, and optical power exceeding 0.1 mW. Allan deviation at 1-second intervals must be below 1E-13 and below 8E-15 after 100,000 seconds of averaging. Power consumption must not exceed 150 watts for stability-critical components and 500 watts total without additional cooling beyond still air. Physical dimensions must fit within standard 19-inch rack enclosures (450.85 mm width, 760 mm depth, 267 mm height). Systems must include integrated control and monitoring via serial or Ethernet interfaces, frequency accuracy to 1E-11 fractional inaccuracy upon delivery or digital adjustability to 1E-16 step size, and femtosecond-laser frequency comb output. Environmental sensitivity must limit frequency changes to less than 1E-14 per degree Celsius and 1E-15 per percent relative humidity change. A separately priced option includes redundant DC power input (18–30V). Delivery, installation, and training must complete within 12 weeks of award. Government acceptance testing is planned for 14 business days. A 5-year warranty and on-site training covering operations, maintenance, and troubleshooting are required. Invoicing must be submitted electronically to INVOICE@NIST.GOV or via the Treasury Department's Invoice Processing Platform.