RFSoC Integrated Microwave Readout Electronics

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is seeking to procure five RFSoC Integrated Microwave Readout Electronics units through a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for its Quantum Calorimeter Group. The solicitation, numbered NB686050-24-02257, requires electronics capable of reading out and operating large arrays of x-ray detectors with complex technical specifications, including 8x Radio Frequency ADCs at 10 GSPS with 14-bit resolution and additional technical capabilities. The procurement will be evaluated using a Lowest Price Technically Acceptable (LPTA) basis, with quotes required to demonstrate technical capability, firm fixed pricing, and compliance with detailed technical specifications. Potential contractors must submit their quotes by January 21, 2025, and include documentation proving their ability to meet the stringent technical requirements. The solicitation will use simplified acquisition procedures under Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Part 13.

This contract is a total small business set-aside under NAICS category 334413 (Semiconductor and Related Device Manufacturing), with a size standard of 1,250 employees. The place of performance will be in Boulder, Colorado, with the contractor expected to deliver the five integrated electronics boards within 8 weeks of purchase order execution. The contract will be awarded as a firm-fixed price procurement with Net 30 payment terms and FOB Destination shipping requirements. No government-furnished equipment or special materials are needed, and the work will be performed at the contractor's facility. The electronics must meet specific technical requirements, including compatibility with NIST-developed firmware/software, a Xilinx Zynq Ultrascale+ 3rd Generation RFSoC base, and support for standalone clocking with an external 10 MHz reference. Contractors must maintain active registration in the System for Award Management (SAM.gov) and provide details about the country of origin if manufactured outside the United States.