Announcement Type : Special Notice Classification Code: 6695 Announcement Number: NIST-SS26-142 Subject: Notice of Intent to Noncompetitively Acquire 780 Widely Tunable Laser with PDH Module The Photonics and Optomechanics Group of the Physical Measurement Laboratory at NIST develops quantum sensing technology for a broad range of applications, including inertial measurement. As part of that work one widely-tunable laser is required to readout sensors. In addition, fast laser frequency modulation electronics are required to allow the laser to be locked to an optical frequency reference. The laser shall cover the wavelength range between 750 nm to 790 nm. Required specifications are given below. A set of fast Pound-Drever-Hall (PDH) detection electronics are also required that can provide a signal to frequency modulate the laser and generate a PDH error signal to frequency lock the laser to a frequency reference using a separate PID controller not included in this procurement. The controller for the laser must also include the ability to measure spectra as the laser wavelength is swept, display the spectra, lock to spectral features independently of the fast laser modulation electronics, and control these operations from the front panel or a computer interface. The controller must also be able to control the PDH electronics. The controller for the laser must also have an interactive screen for selecting operational modes, setting parameters, visualizing optical resonances of an optically interrogated cavity as the laser tunes, and selecting resonances for locking. The controller must be fully digital with 24 bit input resolution and include a single mode, polarization-maintaining fiber-coupled output. The laser wavelength must be tunable using a coarse motion stage and a piezoelectric motion stage. These tuning methods must be able to operate simultaneously. NIST intends to award a non-competitive contract to Toptica Photonics for a CTL 780 with PDH Module to be used at the PML. This notice is not a request for a quotation. A solicitation document will not be issued, and quotations will not be requested. This acquisition is being conducted under the authority of RFO 12.102(a). The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code for this acquisition is 334516, Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing. NIST requires a solution that meets the following minimum requirements: Tunable laser with (1) a tuning range of at least 750 nm to 790 nm without mode hops Built-in frequency stabilization capabilities to lock the laser to photonic sensors Fast external stabilization electronics to enable laser linewidth reduction to decrease frequency noise and improve measurement precision. After thorough evaluation, it has been determined that the CTL 780 with PDH Module from manufacturer, Toptica, is essential for several reasons: Technical: PML requires the capability to test photonic sensors and integrated circuits. A tuning range of at least …