Quantum Network pluggable 4-channel superconducting nanowire single-photon detector (SNSPD) system

BACKGROUND This is a Sources Sought Notice (SSN) from industry to help determine the availability and capability of small business and other than small businesses that are capable of providing any or all of the products and services required by the U.S. Department of Commerce, National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). NIST is conducting market research to identify potential sources that can provide a Quantum Network pluggable 4-channel superconducting nanowire single-photon detector system that meets all technical specifications, inclusive of FOB Destination delivery requirements identified in this notice. This notice is strictly to request information for market research purposes to help NIST determine the appropriate acquisition strategy for this requirement. This notice shall not be construed as a solicitation, an obligation, or commitment by NIST. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)/Quantum Information Group applies expertise in mathematical subdisciplines such as combinatorics, graph theory, network science, operations research, optimization, discrete nonlinear dynamics, computational geometry, quantum mechanics, and information theory. The Quantum Network pluggable 4-channel superconducting nanowire single-photon detector (SNSPD) system will assist current NIST research in the development of quantum network science and metrology. The system shall be incorporated into the first quantum network metrology node allowing users on the quantum network to dial into the detectors at any time, i.e. continuously (24/7) through the network. This system is anticipated to mark the next steps into the realization of a true plug-and-play quantum network testbed detector system. The system will be the workhorse of detecting quantum network traffic and make available valuable quantum network telemetry data for researchers and users. The system must be free from experiencing long delays to maintain operation of the metrology node. OVERVIEW NIST has a potential requirement for a Contractor to provide a Quantum Network pluggable 4-channel SNSPD system that operates continuously 24/7, is efficiently moveable and is quantum network pluggable, i.e. controls and status information are directed through a network, which meets the technical specifications below. All items must be new. Used or remanufactured equipment will not be considered for award. Experimental, prototype, or custom items will not be considered. The use of “gray market” components not authorized for sale in the U.S. by the proposer is not acceptable. The Contractor shall provide a Quantum Network pluggable 4-channel superconducting nanowire single-photon detector system, quantity one (1), in accordance with the following: LINE ITEM (CLIN) 0001: Description: Quantum Network pluggable 4-channel SNSPDs. Quantity: One (1) A. Technical Specifications: a. The Contractor shall provide a system that contains a total of 4 SNSPDs, with the following characteristics and features: • Four (4) SNSPDs with detection efficiency (fiber input to detector) of >80 % for wavelengths between 1300 nm and 1600 nm, 107 counts/sec and a dark count rate of 100 cps or less. • Power requirements: The system must operate at 110V/15A without the need for water cooling. • The system must be able to operate continuously (i.e, 24 hours a day /7 days a week), such that the SNSPDs must be able to detect and generate outputs continuously.) • The fiber connection to the system must be SMF28 with E2000 bulk-head connector. • The system must be able to be operated through the quantum network from a remote client, i.e. all system specific functions must be able to be executed from that remote client. • The contractor must provide a command library to fully control the system using python. • The SNSPD circuitry must prevent the detectors from latching. • The detector system cryostat must be rack-mountable and 3U (5.25 inches) in height for mounting into existing racks and moveable betwe...