Dual source enables change-over between electrospray ionisation (ESI) and matrix-assisted laser desorption ionisation (Maldi) under computer control, without any hardware or vacuum changes
Bruker Daltonics has introduced what it says is a unique dual ESI/Maldi ion source option for its Ultrotoft-Q floor-standing high-performance Q-q-Tof mass spectrometer.
This dual ESI/Maldi source enables change-over between electrospray ionisation (ESI) and matrix-assisted laser desorption ionisation (Maldi) under computer control, and without any laborious and time- consuming hardware or vacuum changes.
The dual ESI/Maldi source combines Bruker Daltonics's new Apollo II ion-funnel ESI source, which offers an order of magnitude sensitivity improvement, with the Scout MTP vacuum-Maldi source for microtitre-plate sized targets and AnchorChips.
The unique, patented design of the Ultrotoft-Q enables mass resolution of greater than 20k in normal mode, and resolution of greater than 40k in MultiPass mode for both ionisation modes.
Melvin Park, director of mass spectrometry research at Bruker Daltonics, commented: "The sensitivity of a mass spectrometer begins with a bright ion source.
"Older source designs suffer from losses during the transport of ions through a series of pumping stages.
"The proprietary new ion funnel of the Apollo II source significantly reduces these losses, and provides the much higher ion transmission needed for pushing the sensitivity limits in demanding proteomics and small molecule research".
"The Ultrotoft-Q with the new dual source offers a single platform for computer-controlled change-over between ESI and Maldi.
"This is far more convenient and practical than the traditional approach where one source has to be physically removed, in order to bolt on the other - a process that with calibration and stabilisation can take hours," added Catherine Stacey, director of proteomics at Bruker Daltonics.
"The outstanding sensitivity of the Apollo II source, and the industry-leading resolution and mass accuracy of the Ultrotoft-Q in both ESI and Maldi modes, are particularly useful for de novo sequencing and the analysis of proteins not found in database searches.
"The Ultrotoft-Q system can be integral module of our Proteineer solution for high-success expression proteomics.
"For pharmaceutical customers, it offers software tools to support customers in achieving 21 CFR Part 11 compliance".
Bruker Daltonics also offers optional IQ, OQ and PV services to FDA- regulated customers.
