Device built-in

Comprehensive Analysis of Waters Quattro micro API LC/MS/MS System

The Waters Quattro micro API LC/MS/MS is a high-performance triple quadrupole liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry system that perfectly combines the exceptional separation capability of HPLC with the high sensitivity and selectivity of tandem mass spectrometry. Renowned for its excellent cost-performance ratio, stable reproducibility, and user-friendly operation, this system has become the analytical tool of choice in ADME screening, food safety, environmental monitoring, medical diagnostics, and bioefficacy evaluation.

System Architecture and Core Technologies

The Quattro micro API features a modular design, primarily consisting of a high-performance liquid chromatograph (Waters Alliance 2695 or ACQUITY UPLC) and a triple quadrupole mass analyzer. Its revolutionary Z-Spray™ orthogonal atmospheric pressure chemical ionization interface supports multiple ionization modes including ESI and APCI, effectively improving ion transmission efficiency while reducing background noise. The system's innovative T-Wave collision cell technology maintains excellent performance even at high data acquisition rates, enabling accurate quantification of narrow peaks (2-3 seconds) generated by UPLC. The detection system employs a high dynamic range photomultiplier tube combined with advanced digital signal processing technology, achieving sensitivity of 10pg reserpine (m/z 609→195) with a signal-to-noise ratio ≥20:1.

Intelligent Workflow and Performance Advantages

The system is equipped with Waters' MassLynx 4.0 software platform, providing a complete solution from method development to data analysis. Its unique QuanOptimize technology automatically calculates optimal MRM channels, significantly improving method development efficiency. The system offers a mass range up to 2000amu, resolution ≥2.5M (PPG2000), and mass measurement accuracy for PEG 1000 (1004.6220) with an average standard deviation ≤±0.05Da. Its compact dimensions (390×587×810mm) allow benchtop placement, saving valuable laboratory space.

Wide Applications and Service Support

In pharmaceutical R&D, the system is used for pharmacokinetic studies and impurity analysis. For food safety, it detects pesticide residues and illegal additives. In environmental monitoring, it analyzes organic pollutants in water bodies. For clinical diagnostics, it can detect hormones, vitamins and other biomarkers. Waters provides one-year warranty service, and its engineered design significantly reduces operational complexity, allowing researchers to focus on data analysis. This system represents Waters' technological excellence in the field of routine quantitative LC-MS/MS, combining stability, sensitivity, and intelligence to deliver an efficient and reliable analytical solution for various laboratories.