Hydrogen Maser DTC Upgrade

The United States Naval Observatory (USNO), under the Department of the Navy Naval Supply Systems Command, is seeking a sole-source procurement for the upgrade and verification of one Hydrogen Maser (HMaser) with digital thermal control (DTC) upgrades. The solicitation (RFQ No. N0018925Q0281) is specifically targeting Microchip Technology, Inc. as the sole provider, given their unique MHM2020 series HMaser, which is the only domestically produced active hydrogen maser critical to the Department of Defense Master Clock. The contract will be awarded as a Firm Fixed Price under FAR 13.501(a)(1)(ii), with no competitive bidding anticipated. Quotes must be submitted electronically to Cody Ellis by 12:00 PM EST on May 20, 2025. The evaluation will focus on the contractor's ability to perform the specialized upgrade and verification services for this highly sensitive scientific equipment.

The procurement is not set aside for any specific business category and falls under NAICS code 334419 with a small business size standard of 750 employees. The estimated repair cost is $49,974.89, and the contract allows up to 6 months for work completion. The repairs will be conducted entirely at Microchip Technology's factory, with the requirement to return the upgraded HMaser (Serial #100) to the USNO located in Washington, DC 20392. The contract encompasses comprehensive upgrade, verification, and return shipping of the maser, emphasizing the critical nature of maintaining the precise timekeeping equipment without system disruption. The sole-source justification highlights the proprietary technology and unique capabilities of Microchip Technology, making them the only viable vendor for this specialized scientific instrument maintenance.