Table-Top Free Space Measuring System - USDA-ARS Auburn AL

This is a Sources Sought notice Only.  This is NOT a solicitation for proposals, proposal abstracts, or quotations.  This Sources Sought is issued for information and planning purposes only as part of USDA ARS market research and does not itself constitute an RFQ. This requirement is covered under NAICS code 334516 – Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing. The purpose of this notice is to obtain information regarding the availability and capability of qualified sources; Small Businesses; HUBZone small business; service-disabled, veteran-owned small business; 8(a) small business; veteran-owned small business; woman-owned small business; or small disadvantaged businesses; Responses to the information requested will assist the Government in determining the appropriate acquisition method, including whether a set-aside is possible.

The USDA-ARS National Soil Dynamics laboratory (NSDL) is in need of a specialized microwave instrument which enables the user to measure reflection and transmission data while not touching nor destroying (NDE) the sample.  The following are the specification required for this instrument. 

1. Small table-top frame for transmission and reflection measurements.

2. The frame with two probes at the proper alignment and distance for optimal measurements and has a

    versatile sample holder to allow for multiple specimen types and sizes.

3. The frame with two probes for a frequency range of at least 2.5 GHz to 20 GHz.

4. At least one pair of SMA cables designed for use up to at least 25 GHz.  

5. Two probes should be able to be connected to a VNA.

6. Software for VNA that calculates the S-parameters.

7. Free Space Measurement Methods to characterize materials.

8. Enables the user to measure reflection and transmission of electromagnet waves data while not

    touching nor destroying (NDE) the sample The Government does not intend to make an award based

    on responses to this inquiry. This notice does not constitute a commitment by the Government.

Capability Statement

All information submitted in response to this announcement is voluntary, and the Government will not pay for information requested nor will it compensate any respondent for any cost incurred in developing information provided to the Government. Business concerns that possess the capabilities necessary to undertake this work should submit complete documentation of their capabilities to the Contracting Officer.  Capability statements shall include the Contractors contact point to discuss their response.

The capability statement should include:

1)  Acknowledgement that they are able to provide the subject supplies/services being requested;

2) Interested vendors should identify their size standards in accordance with the Small Business Administration;

3) At least three previous requirements that are similar to the requirement include a discussion of the Contract type, delivery method, duration, etc.;

4) Any other information considered relevant to this requirement; and

5) The government requests that no proprietary, classified, confidential, or sensitive information should be included in the response.

Any vendor responding to this notice should ensure that its response is complete and sufficiently detailed to allow the Government to determine their qualifications to perform the work.  Respondents are advised that the Government is under no obligation to acknowledge receipt of the information received or provide feedback to respondents with respect to any information submitted.  After review of the responses received, a combined synopsis/solicitation may be published on sam.gov depending on the responses received.

All responses to this Sources Sought Notice must be received by the notice’s POC by the deadline in order to be considered. Responses may not be returned. Responders are solely responsible for all expenses associated with responding to this Inquiry. Do not submit pricing information in response to this Request.