ASSERT_FAQ_07.21.2023.pdf

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HR001123S0047

Advanced Sources for Single-event Effects Radiation Testing (ASSERT)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) as of 07/21/2023

Q14: Can we include more than one technical approach in a proposal?

A14: Proposals should feature a single technical approach that is deemed by the proposer to be most responsive to the BAA. Technical approaches that are sufficiently distinct can be submitted as separate proposals.

Q13: Can you describe the effect of type of proposer (academic, small business, etc.) on the allowable award instruments?

A13: To a large extent, the appropriate award instrument is dictated by the type of entity the prime contractor is (i.e., traditional defense contractor, non-traditional defense contractor, university, etc.). Therefore, when pursuing teaming approaches, the team first needs to determine who the prime will be, as this will go a long way toward determining the award instrument type to request. Cooperative agreements would only be appropriate for a university serving as a prime. For traditional defense contractors, the appropriate award instrument typically is a procurement contract. Other Transactions were developed to target non-traditional defense contractors who might otherwise not be willing to do business with the Government, and therefore these are more commercial-like instruments and often are appropriate for non-traditional defense contractors.

Q12: Can you describe the magnitude and duration of analog transients that will be measured?

A12: Proposals should address a broad family of effects. ASSERT is not a program to develop novel diagnostics and there is currently no intent to characterize ultrafast phenomena. An oscilloscope with a 2 GHz sample speed should be adequate.

Q11: Does ASSERT seek to test deep nodes and quantum platforms?

A11: The intent is for ASSERT sources to be applicable to a wide range of device types. A tool with maximum utility for future DoD applications is desirable.

Q10: Is shielding included in the overall volume requirement?

A10: Yes, requisite shielding should be included in the system volume.

Q9: For the linear energy transfer (LET) requirement, is it constant LET of 5mm or a peak LET achieved at a range of depth?

A9: The metrics refer to LET achieved at range. Proposed approaches that use a highly peaked LET distribution to meet program metrics should justify how testing and validation can be realistically achieved using the proposed beam.

Q8: Is there a requirement on the duration of a single test?

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A8: There is no requirement for the duration of a single test. Test durations will vary by application. The intent is to produce a tool can be used to study single devices as well as rapidly test integrated electronics.

Q7: Should we constrain incidence to normal?

A7: The ability to vary the angle of incidence is desired.

Q6: Does the pulse width of 2 ps refer to the charged particles that strike the device?

A6: The pulse width requirement refers to the amount of time necessary to put charge into the material, per strike.

Q5: Can you provide a priority on particle beam type?

A5: No, this decision should be part of the proposed solution. All proposed approaches should be responsive to the program metrics and requirements and contain sufficient details to support technical feasibility.

Q4: Are there further details on what electronics will be tested and provided?

A4: Electronics for testing will be COTS; further details will be provided at program kickoff.

There is currently no plan to provide devices as Government Furnished Equipment.

Q3: What is the timeframe for receiving feedback on abstracts?

A3: Responses are expected to be provided within 15 days of the abstract submission deadline.

Q2: Can multiple abstracts be submitted for different ideas/paths?

A2: Yes.

Q1: If a team has a lead on transition partners, when, where, and how should this be discussed?

A1: Detail any existing or planned transition partner engagements in the proposal. See BAA, Part II, Sec. V, Subsection A: Evaluation Criteria: “The evaluation will consider the proposer’s plans and capabilities to transition proposed technologies to U.S. national security applications and to U.S. industry.”