Sole Source Request to Purchase Gen II Capacitively Coupled Anode Large Area Picosecond Photo Detector

Mississippi State University is issuing a sole‑source procurement for three Gen II Capacitively Coupled Anode Large Area Picosecond Photo Detectors (LAPPDs) and associated engineering support to enable an advanced neutron‑radiation tracking system. The LAPPDs provide sub‑100 ps temporal resolution and position‑sensitive photon detection, which are essential for discriminating neutron versus gamma interactions and for locating neutron events within a large organic glass scintillator. The purchase includes transportation cases and a one‑time engineering services contract for custom PCB layout and integration. The only qualified supplier is Incom, Inc., the exclusive manufacturer of these sensors. Total estimated cost is $149,305. • Item: Gen II LAPPD (4087046‑A), 220 mm square, 3 units @ $43,440 each • Accessories: Transportation cases (3 @ $495) • Services: Engineering support for PCB design and integration ($17,500) • Total contract value: ≈ $149k • Delivery and integration required for a neutron‑tracking research project in the university’s physics department • Sole‑source justification based on unique performance specifications and exclusive manufacturer