Tender opportunity for PCB manufacturers

The CSIRO is undertaking a project to develop the Australian Square Kilometre Array Pathfinder (ASKAP) telescope and is seeking proposals from tenderers for the high standard manufacture of complex and propriety BGA level electronics and mechanical assembly for approximately 30 antennas (plus spares), for up to a five-year period, according to Technology Industry Association (TIA).

“The time frame is tight (2nd December close) and the TIA is eager to support members and the local industry,” said the association in a statement.

CSIRO has an anticipated requirement of 18,000 printed circuit boards with up to 30 variants across these boards for 30 antennas. CSIRO will provide production packs that include full specifications for the required variants.

At the commencement of any contract granted by CSIRO, a run for six antennas will be undertaken. This will be for 4000 printed circuit boards with up to 30 variants. CSIRO expects the initial run will be completed by no later than 30 June 2014.

The TIA is urging interested parties to reply ASAP with expression of interest. With sufficient interest, the TIA will recommend a task force leader (from the respondents expressing interest in the role) to facilitate the activities amongst the interested businesses. Given the volumes required by the CSIRO, a consolidated response representing the collective strength of our innovative SA businesses may well be attractive.” TIA President Tony Stevens is willing to meet with the CSIRO in WA as appropriate to support such an initiative. With sufficient expression of interest, an information session will be convened next week towards establishing a consortium of participants.