Optical Modulator (No Substitutions)
ENERGY, DEPARTMENT OF.ENERGY, DEPARTMENT OF.BROOKHAVEN NATL LAB -DOE CONTRACTOR · Response deadline: Thu, 12 Nov 2026
What the government is buying
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is soliciting bids for an optical modulator through Brookhaven National Laboratory, a DOE contractor-operated facility located on Long Island, New York. An optical modulator is a device that varies properties of light—such as intensity, phase, or polarization—used in optical communications, laser systems, and scientific instrumentation. Brookhaven's research programs regularly require precision photonics equipment for accelerator-based science, synchrotron light sources, and other advanced physics applications. The notation "No Substitutions" in the title indicates the government is seeking a specific make and model or otherwise restrictively defined item; see the solicitation for exact technical specifications.
Key facts
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Agency | Department of Energy / Brookhaven National Laboratory |
| Notice type | Solicitation |
| Solicitation number | AB484554 |
| NAICS | 334516 |
| Set-aside | None |
| Response deadline | November 12, 2026, 5:00 PM ET |
| Place of performance | Upton, NY |
Who can bid
This solicitation is open to all responsible sources with no small-business set-aside applied. Any business entity—including large businesses, small businesses, and non-traditional government contractors—may submit an offer, provided they can meet the technical requirements and delivery terms. NAICS code 334516 corresponds to "Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing," a category where the Small Business Administration size standard is typically 1,000 employees. While size status does not confer bidding preference here, small businesses in this NAICS should verify their SAM.gov profile reflects current size representation.
Given the "No Substitutions" restriction, potential offerors must confirm they can supply the exact item requested or identical product from the specified manufacturer. Distributors, value-added resellers, and original equipment manufacturers with established supply chains for precision optical components should evaluate this opportunity.
How to put together a competitive bid
Verify product exactness. The "No Substitutions" designation means deviations risk rejection. Contact the contracting officer promptly if your product catalog appears equivalent but is not explicitly named—some solicitations permit pre-submission inquiry for equivalency determinations.
Demonstrate relevant performance history. Brookhaven's scientific mission demands high-reliability equipment. Include past performance with DOE national laboratories, university research facilities, or comparable high-technology end users. Highlight experience with optical modulators in demanding environments (vacuum, radiation, or high-power laser applications if applicable).
Address delivery and logistics. The place of performance is Upton, New York, on Brookhaven's secured federal reservation. Propose realistic lead times for specialized photonics equipment—custom or low-volume optical components often carry 12–24 week procurement cycles. Clarify import/export considerations if sourcing from non-U.S. manufacturers, as DOE facilities operate under heightened scrutiny for supply chain security.
Price strategically for full-and-open competition. Without a set-aside, expect competition from established laboratory equipment distributors and potentially the manufacturer's direct sales organization. Benchmark against GSA Schedule pricing or comparable federal contract awards for similar optical modulators when available.
Ensure SAM.gov compliance. Verify active registration with current representations and certifications. Check that your banking information and entity status are current to avoid award delays.
Next steps
Access the full solicitation AB484554 on SAM.gov to review detailed specifications, delivery requirements, and evaluation criteria. Note the firm response deadline of November 12, 2026, at 5:00 PM Eastern Time—late submissions will not be considered. Given the specialized nature of optical modulators for national laboratory applications, early engagement with the contracting officer for clarification questions is advisable.
View the official notice on SAM.gov →