NIST NB686050-26-01556 Qubit Readout and Control Modules

The National Institute of Standards and Technology is conducting market research for qubit readout and control modules with a sources-sought response deadline of July 22, 2026, and does not currently plan a set-aside. NIST's Advanced Microwave Photonics Group requires two Qblox QRC microwave modules (12 output channels and 4 input channels combined) capable of continuous output frequency coverage from 100 MHz to 10 GHz and input bandwidth exceeding 800 MHz per channel. Equipment must integrate with existing Qblox hardware within three-chassis infrastructure and maintain compatibility with current Qblox control software. Key operational requirements include calibration-free operation, automatic signal path optimization, synchronized ports, and fast feedback capabilities. Qblox US Inc. (UEI: XB19V7JTXAE6) is currently identified in the notice, but NIST has not committed to a sole-source procurement and will consider competitive acquisition if alternative capable sources respond. Work is performed at NIST facilities. Phased delivery is acceptable with software delivered electronically; installation and testing require an estimated three-week duration with government acceptance expected to exceed seven days. Interested vendors must submit responses via email by July 22, 2026, in Microsoft Word, PDF, or Excel format, addressing company information including SAM.gov registration status, feedback on draft requirements including domestic content considerations, detailed product specifications and pricing, FAR clause 52.219-14 compliance, and existing federal contract vehicles such as GSA Multiple Award Schedules. Responses will inform NIST's market research and may lead to publication of a formal solicitation on GSA eBuy or SAM.gov; responses are not deemed adequate responses to any future solicitation.