Sources Sought Notice for new Microscopes

The Department of Commerce National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has issued a sources sought notice, solicitation number NIST-SS27-01, to identify capable providers of new microscopes for the Boulder Microfabrication Facility (BMF). These instruments are essential for inspecting substrates and fabricating mission-critical semiconductor devices within an ISO class 5 cleanroom environment. The procurement is categorized under NAICS code 334516, with the place of performance located in Boulder, Colorado. The required systems must support optical techniques common to the semiconductor industry, featuring magnification powers ranging from 25x to 1000x and a multi-objective turret, ideally with six positions. Technical specifications require the equipment to be both fully manually and computer controlled via motorized components, including the stage, turret, and prism. The systems must provide 200 mm of stage travel in both x and y axes, fit on a 3 foot by 3 foot tabletop, and have a weight compatible with a pneumatic floating table. Interested parties must respond by November 20, 2026.