Procurement of HINDS I/FS60 Photoelastic Modulator (PEM)

Mississippi State University has issued a solicitation for the procurement of a HINDS Instruments I/FS60 Photoelastic Modulator (PEM) through a sole source purchase. The PEM is a specialized optical device designed for use in advanced chiroptical spectrometry, featuring a transmission efficiency greater than 99%, an acceptance angle of ±40 degrees, and a wavelength range spanning from 170 nanometers to 2.0 micrometers. It has a useful aperture of 15 millimeters and operates at a nominal oscillation frequency of 60 kHz. The total estimated cost for the device, including the optical head, electronic driver, controller, and cables, is approximately $7,519.25, with a negotiated 5% discount. The procurement is justified by the unique technical specifications of the HINDS I/FS60 PEM, which are critical for the university’s development of a new chiroptical spectrometer. The notice invites any objections from other vendors or parties who believe the device can be obtained through a competitive process, providing a detailed explanation and supporting documentation. If no valid objections are received, Mississippi State University intends to proceed with the sole source purchase, potentially seeking approval from the Public Procurement Review Board. The contract is valued at approximately $7,519, and the procurement process is managed by Debra Raines, with the opportunity to review further details through the provided online link.