Device built-in

Thermo Scientific Q Exactive HF-X High-Resolution Mass Spectrometer Introduction

System Overview

The Thermo Scientific Q Exactive HF-X is a revolutionary hybrid quadrupole-Orbitrap high-resolution mass spectrometer, representing the cutting-edge technology in proteomics and biopharmaceutical analysis. By integrating innovative ion transmission technology with an ultra-high-field Orbitrap mass analyzer, this system sets new industry benchmarks for sensitivity, resolution, and scanning speed. As the latest upgraded model in the Q Exactive series, the HF-X is particularly designed for highly complex biological samples, delivering unprecedented analytical depth and data quality for proteomics, metabolomics, and biopharmaceutical research.

Core Technical Features

The instrument incorporates three breakthrough technologies: High Capacity Transfer Tube (HCTT) enables more efficient ion introduction; Electrodynamic Ion Funnel achieves superior ion focusing across a broader mass range; and Ultra-High-Field Orbitrap Mass Analyzer provides resolution up to 240,000 (m/z 200). With a mass range of 50-6,000 m/z and mass accuracy <1 ppm (internal standard), the system reaches scanning speeds up to 40 Hz. The innovative segmented quadrupole technology enables more precise precursor ion selection, while advanced peak picking algorithms significantly enhance reliability for complex sample analysis.

Performance Advantages

The Q Exactive HF-X achieves major breakthroughs in key performance metrics:

1. Enhanced sensitivity: 2-3 times more sensitive than previous generations with 8-fold signal-to-noise improvement, detecting 500 fg on-column buspirone (S/N>100:1)
2. Scanning speed: Up to 40 Hz acquisition speed combined with aHCD fragmentation technology dramatically increases peptide identification throughput
3. Workflow flexibility: Supports multiple acquisition modes including DDA, DIA, and PRM, with specially optimized TMT scanning resolving reporter ions in 96ms
4. Dynamic range: >5,000:1 ensures accurate quantification from trace to high-abundance substances

Typical Applications

The system demonstrates exceptional performance across multiple research frontiers:

• Proteomics: Achieves world-record identification of 1,100 peptides per minute, supporting both top-down and bottom-up research strategies
• Biopharmaceuticals: Equipped with dedicated biopharma options for analyzing intact proteins, antibody subunits, and protein complexes
• Metabolomics: Combined with Compound Discoverer software, enables complete analysis from data to metabolic pathways
• Clinical research: Provides highly reproducible data (87% proteins CV<10%) for biomarker validation through PRM and dRT technologies

Service and Certification

The Q Exactive HF-X is CE IVD certified and complies with international analytical standards, having received prestigious awards including the "2017 Pharmaceutical Industry Innovation Award" and "Top 10 Innovations in Life Sciences." Thermo Fisher provides comprehensive application method development support and operator training services. Its modular design accommodates evolving laboratory needs, with proven performance validated by top research institutions such as the Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences.