NIST - QEG Vector Network Analyzer

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is conducting market research through this pre-solicitation notice for a Vector Network Analyzer (VNA) to support the Quantum Electronics Group's quantum computing resonator testbed. The VNA must perform S-parameter measurements across 500 kHz to 13 GHz frequency range, feature at least 2 test ports, maintain a system dynamic range of 95 dB, and meet specific noise floor specifications between 4-8 GHz. Additional technical requirements include front panel jumpers, GPIB interface for instrument control and data transfer, front panel functionality, and control software capable of setting distinct sweep parameters. This sources sought notice is assigned to NAICS code 334515 for Instrument Manufacturing for Measuring and Testing Electricity and Electrical Signals, with a small business size standard of 750 employees. Interested U.S. manufacturers must submit four-page electronic capability statements to Contract Specialist Matthew Delgado by July 1, 2025, demonstrating their ability to meet the procurement requirements including company details, manufacturing location, product specifications, lead times, and country of origin.

This procurement does not utilize any set-aside designations and no incumbent contractors are identified in the documentation. The government seeks to procure a single VNA unit to expand the measurement capabilities of NIST's quantum computing testbed, with the primary objective of reproducibly measuring network parameters of superconducting microwave resonators. The equipment will be shipped to Douglas Bennett at NIST's Boulder, Colorado facility, where government acceptance testing is planned to occur within 7 business days of delivery. No specific budget range or award value is disclosed in the pre-solicitation materials. The government emphasizes that this sources sought notice is explicitly not a Request for Quotation or Proposals and does not commit to any future contract award, with the primary purpose being market research to identify capable U.S. manufacturers for this specialized scientific instrument.