Solicitation - Frequency Comb Lasers

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), under the Department of Commerce, is conducting market research through a Sources Sought notice for commercial ultrafast fiber laser systems to support advanced RF generation and detection capabilities above 300 GHz. This initiative seeks technical input from industry to inform a potential future acquisition but does not constitute a solicitation or commitment to award a contract. The requirement centers on two specialized laser systems: a 780 nm ultrafast fiber laser and a 1560 nm ultrafast fiber laser, each to be procured in single units with strict performance specifications including auxiliary fiber outputs, electro-optic actuators for optical locking, active temperature stabilization, low power consumption, and manufacturer-verified pre-shipment testing. Equipment must be new and capable of synchronization with external RF and optical references. The place of performance is Boulder, Colorado, with delivery required no later than January 1, 2027, and shipments may be directed to either NIST Boulder or NIST Gaithersburg locations. Respondents must submit a capability statement limited to five pages electronically, including detailed company information such as the number of employees, office locations, Unique Entity Identifier (UEI), and Cage Code, as well as the names and countries of origin for both the product provider and manufacturer. Technical documentation must demonstrate compliance with the attached specifications, including product examples and specification sheets, along with typical lead times for delivery, installation, and training. Offerors are required to verify their small business status under NAICS code 334516, which has a size standard of 1,000 employees, and must possess a current and active SAM.gov registration as well as an Export Control Classification Number (ECCN). All submissions must be received by June 17, 2026, and are restricted to technical capability statements—marketing materials, sales brochures, or generic product catalogs will not be accepted. NIST will evaluate responses to determine market availability, technological feasibility, and potential for a future small business set-aside, contingent upon sufficient qualified small business submissions. The agency will not be bound by any response provided under this non-binding notice.