Acquisition of Microwave Source for Dynamic Nuclear Polarization   2

Background
The contract is issued for the acquisition of a microwave source intended for dynamic nuclear polarization (DNP) applications. The agency's mission is to enhance NMR signal through DNP, which requires specific technical capabilities in the microwave source to meet the needs of existing NMR magnets.

The goal of this contract is to procure a microwave source that meets stringent technical specifications to ensure successful implementation in laboratory settings.

Work Details
The microwave source must meet the following specifications:
- Operate in continuous-wave (CW) mode.
- Tunable microwave frequencies from 263.3 GHz to 264.3 GHz via mechanical or electrical adjustments.
- Achieve a minimum CW output power of 3.0 W within the tuning range, with capability for lower power operation.
- Produce microwaves with TE10 output mode for compatibility with existing waveguides and microwave horns.
- Maintain output power stability of +/- 2% or better at temperature variations less than 1°C.
- Maintain output frequency stability of +/- 25 MHz or better at temperature variations less than 1°C.
- Include a power supply that provides all necessary voltages and currents for operation.
- Include a refrigerated water recirculating heat exchanger (chiller unit) with adequate performance characteristics for CW operation.
- All necessary cables, tubes, connectors, and items for interfacing the microwave source with the power supply and chiller unit must be included.
- The microwave source must fit within a 2 ft x 2 ft area and have a height of 3 ft, operable in the fringe field of an existing NMR magnet with a field strength of 15 G.