Microwave Phase Noise Analyzer

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) within the Department of Commerce is procuring a single commercial microwave phase noise analyzer for their Photonics and Optomechanics Group to characterize nanophotonic light sources. The solicitation seeks a new electronic instrument with specific technical requirements including signal input range from 1 MHz to 100 MHz, input signal power levels down to -5 dBm, and phase noise measurement capabilities from 1 Hz to 1 MHz offset frequencies. The procurement excludes any prototypes, demonstration models, used, or refurbished instruments, requiring only commercially available equipment shipped in original manufacturer's packaging. Evaluation will be conducted using a lowest-priced, technically acceptable approach with two primary criteria: technical capability and price. Quotes are due by 5:00 PM Eastern Time on July 11, 2025, and must be submitted electronically with three separate volumes covering technical quotation, price quotation, and terms and conditions.

This procurement does not utilize any set-aside designation and is open to all qualified vendors under the small business size standard of 1,000 employees with NAICS code 334516 (Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing). No current contractors or incumbents are identified in the solicitation documentation. While specific award values are not disclosed, the procurement follows simplified acquisition procedures indicating the contract value falls below the simplified acquisition threshold. The solicitation requires delivery of a single unit of the specialized microwave phase noise analyzer equipment. Performance will take place in Gaithersburg, Maryland at NIST's facilities, with the government reserving the right to make an award without discussions based solely on initial quotes received.