Solicitation - 12 GHz Vector Signal Generators

The U.S. Department of Commerce, National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), is conducting market research through a sources-sought announcement to evaluate commercial availability of two precision 12 GHz vector signal generators for use by its Scalable Quantum Computing Group in developing microwave measurement science for cryogenic quantum computing systems. The equipment must have quadrature modulated output (I/Q), a dynamic range between -110 dBm and +15 dBm, and operate within the 100 MHz to 12 GHz frequency band. Both units must be from the same manufacturer to enable phase-locking via a 1 GHz or higher reference clock and must support remote programming via USB and Ethernet. Units must be physically compact, with separate chassis for each I/Q channel—single enclosures with multiple I/Q outputs are explicitly unacceptable. Minimum technical performance must meet or exceed the Rhode & Schwarz SGS100A. The equipment will be delivered to Boulder, Colorado, where NIST will conduct on-site inspection and performance evaluation within 14 days of delivery, with acceptance expected within seven business days. Testing will verify I/Q modulator bandwidth of at least 500 MHz from 2 GHz to 12 GHz, phase noise below -100 dBc at 10 GHz, and power output accuracy with 0.1 dB resolution. Vendors must submit a five-page capability statement including company profile with employee count and locations, UEI and CAGE codes, product provider and manufacturer details with country of origin, small business status verification, technical documentation demonstrating compliance with specifications, and typical lead time including installation and training. A one-year manufacturer warranty is acceptable. All respondents must have an active SAM.gov registration, possess an ECCN, and may include small businesses and related socioeconomic categories such as SDB, WOSB, HUBZone, SDVOSB, and VOSB. Travel for installation or training, if required, may be reimbursed under the Federal Travel Regulation. Responses are due by June 17, 2026, and submission does not obligate the government to award a contract. This effort is strictly for market research to determine feasibility and vendor capability for a potential future acquisition under NAICS code 334515.