PSC 5850 - VISIBLE AND INVISIBLE LIGHT COMMUNICATION EQUIPMENT

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Classification & Hierarchy for PSC 5850

The classification hierarchy shows how this PSC code fits within the broader federal procurement structure.

Level 1 Spend Category:
13 Electronic & Communication Equipment
Level 2 Spend Category:
13.2 Detection & Coherent Radiation Eq
Parent PSC Code:
58 COMM/DETECT/COHERENT RADIATION
Active Since:
April 2, 2022
Last Updated:
April 30, 2024

Overview for PSC 5850

The Visible and Invisible Light Communication Equipment PSC (5850) encompasses products designed for communication using both visible and infrared light spectrums. This category primarily includes devices such as heliographs and other communication-specific infrared equipment. The equipment under this PSC facilitates secure, line-of-sight communication in tactical and operational environments where radio frequency communication may be impractical or compromised. Government agencies utilize these systems to enable covert or resilient communication channels, often in field operations or specialized missions requiring optical signaling capabilities. Notably, this PSC excludes infrared assemblies and components intended for fire control, guided missile systems, night vision devices, or other non-communication applications, ensuring a focused classification for communication equipment only. This specificity aids contracting officers and suppliers in accurately identifying and procuring the correct technological solutions for mission-critical communication needs.

Includes for PSC 5850

This PSC code covers the following products and services:

Heliographs.

Additional Notes for PSC 5850

Important notes and guidance for using this PSC code:

This class includes only communication types of infrared equipment. Excluded from this class are infrared assemblies, subassemblies, and components designed specifically for use in fire control systems, guided missile systems, test and maintenance specialized equipment, night vision equipment, and other noncommunication types of equipment.

Typical Buyers & Agencies for PSC 5850

Typical buyers under PSC 5850 include military branches such as the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps, which require specialized communication equipment for battlefield and tactical operations. Additionally, agencies like the Department of Homeland Security and intelligence organizations may procure these devices for secure, non-radio communication in sensitive environments. These buyers prioritize equipment that provides reliable, covert communication capabilities to support operational security and mission effectiveness, especially in scenarios where conventional radio communications are limited or vulnerable to interception and jamming.

Common Contract Types for PSC 5850

Contracts for PSC 5850 equipment often include firm-fixed-price and indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) contracts, reflecting the need for both discrete procurement events and ongoing supply capabilities. Procurement methods may involve competitive bidding or sole-source contracts depending on the specificity and sensitivity of the equipment. Typical use cases include acquisition for field deployment, training, or replacement of existing communication systems. Contract values can vary widely based on the complexity and volume of equipment, ranging from small-scale purchases for training to large-scale deployments supporting extensive operational units.

Plain-Language Breakdown for PSC 5850

  • Covers communication equipment using visible and infrared light, including heliographs.
  • Excludes infrared assemblies for fire control, missile guidance, night vision, and non-communication uses.
  • Primarily purchased by military branches and security agencies for tactical and secure communications.
  • Contracts often involve firm-fixed-price or IDIQ with competitive or sole-source procurement methods.
  • Aligned with NAICS codes focused on communications equipment manufacturing and technical services.
  • Supports secure, line-of-sight communication in environments where RF communication is impractical.

Related Categories for PSC 5850

Other categories at the same level as 5850

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