The paper presents the issues related to the development of a portable neutron generator with a microwave source of heavy hydrogen ions for a wide range of applications. The paper analyzes the effect of electromagnetic microwave field strength and the magnetic induction value of a constant external magnetic field on the ionization rate of molecular deuterium and determines their optimal ratios. It also describes the configuration of the magnetic system of permanent magnets made of NdFeB

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... , which provide a homogeneous magnetic field with an induction of 850 Gs necessary for the effective operation of the device using the electron cyclotron resonance (ECR). The dynamics of the primary deuteron flux, as well as secondary particles in the ion-optical system are analyzed. Elements of a conceptual design of a portable neutron generator are described.