NOTICE OF INTENT TO SOLE SOURCE: Automated Waveguide Passive Tuner

The United States Department of Commerce (DOC), National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), Acquisition Management Division (AMD) intends to negotiate, on a sole source basis, with Maury Microwave, 2900 Inland Empire BLVD Ontario, California, 91764-4804, for the purchase of one (1) Automated Waveguide Passive Tuner to be utilized by NIST’s Radio Frequency Division. The statutory authority for this acquisition is 41 USC 3304(a)(1); FAR 13.106-1(b).

***** Sole source determination is based on the need to acquire a quantity of one (1) automated passive tuner that 1) is waveguide WR4.3 [170-260] GHz connectorized, 2) is an add-on to/compatible with the Vertigo system, 3) is driven and automated by the Vertigo “MMW-Studio” software to enable passive (and hybrid) load-pull measurement and 4) meets the technical specifications described below. This solution is intended to be used for the characterization of high-frequency transistors under large-signal and load conditions to support the goals of the CHIPS and Science Act.

Minimum Requirements:

Description: WR4.3 automated passive tuner

Quantity: 1

1. Technical Specifications

1. Must be an automated (not manual) tuner (Ethernet or USB)


2. Add-on to the Vertigo system and fully driven by the “mmw-studio” software only to enable passive and hybrid load-pull measurement.


3. Frequency of operation: rectangular waveguide WR4.3 [1170-260] GHz


4. Insertion-loss must in a 50 ohm-load condition must not exceed 1.2 dB.


5. Must handle a minimum RF power of 10 W (CW)


6. The vector repeatability of the tuner must not exceed -40 dB


7. Must present a minimum reflection coefficient of 0.88 across frequency and over 360 degrees.

Market Research was conducted in November 2024, including internet searches, searches of GSA and Thomas Register, and reviewing company websites. This market research determined that Maury Microwave is the sole manufacturer and distributor of the equipment that meets the required minimum specifications.

*****The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code for this acquisition is 334516– Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing, with a small business size standard of 1,000 employees.

*****A determination by the Government not to compete the proposed acquisition based upon responses to this notice is solely within the discretion of the Government. Information received will be considered solely for the purpose of determining whether to conduct a competitive procurement.

*****No solicitation package will be issued. This notice of intent is not a request for quotations; however, all responsible sources interested may identify their interest and capability to respond to this requirement. Interested parties that believe they can satisfy the requirements listed above must identify their capability in writing before the response date of this notice. Only responses received by 11:00 a.m. Eastern Standard Time on February 07, 2025 will be considered by the government. Responses shall be submitted via email to jenna.bortner@nist.gov or forest.crumpler@nist.gov.

Contracting Office Address:

100 Bureau Drive

Bldg. 301, Mail Stop 1640

Gaithersburg, Maryland 20899-0001