59 -- 10KW Antenna System for 15 MHZ Operation

The U.S. Department of Commerce, National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), Time and Frequency Division proposes to negotiate on a sole source basis under the authority of 41 U.S.C. 253(c)(1) with Valcom, Ltd. for the purchase of a 10 MHz half-wave monopole transmitting antenna system to be located at the Radio Station WWVH in Kauai, Hawaii. The antenna needs to consist of fiberglass whip less 10 meters (35 feet) tall, the antenna will essentially be a .5 - wavemonopole antenna providing a low take-off angle for optimal ground-wave propagation. Simulations predict a bandwidth of at least 500 kHz and possibly up to 1 MHz. The heavy duty construction will easily survive the local environmental conditions and a 10 kW power rating. The antenna will be painted white. The antenna needs to be installed at the centre of a circular ground screen. The ground screen needs to consist of 36 radials, each 10.6 m (35 ft) long, with a 3.6 m (12 ft) by 3.6 m (12 ft) mesh screen at the centre of each plane. A concrete foundation may need to be poured if an existing foundation does not exist or is not in good condition. The antenna should be installed to the concrete foundation by means of a stainless steel hinged base plate. An option would be to mount the antenna on a stainless steel tower. The height of the tower will need to be (2 foot and 4 foot are standard sizes). To raise and lower the antenna, a gin pole and winch can be used or a crane can be used as well. The antenna needs to be designed for service in winds of 100 miles per hour (160 km/h) and survive hurricane force winds of 150 miles per hour (240 km/h). This procurement is being conducted per FAR Part 13, Simplified Acquisition Procedures (NTE $100K). This synopsis is issued for information only. Based on our market research, Valcom, Ltd. is the only vendor who can meet the required specifications. No competitive solicitation is planned. Information submitted in response to this notice will be used solely to determine whether or not use of competitive procedures to fulfill this requirement would be in the Government's best interest and must address qualifications pertinent to this requirement. Any questions regarding this notice must be submitted in writing to the attention of Ms. Yates (e-mail preferred) questions need to be received by January 30, 2007. Anticipated award date is January 31, 2007.