Device built-in

Thermo Scientific Q Exactive Series Mass Spectrometer (2016 Model) Introduction

The Thermo Scientific Q Exactive series, launched in 2016, represents a high-performance quadrupole-Orbitrap hybrid mass spectrometer that combines quadrupole precursor ion selection with high-resolution accurate mass (HRAM) Orbitrap detection technology. Designed for qualitative and quantitative analysis in pharmaceutical R&D, metabolomics, environmental testing, and other fields, this instrument sets new standards in analytical precision and versatility.

Core Technical Features

1. High Resolution & Sensitivity

   • Resolution up to 140,000 FWHM (at m/z 200) with mass accuracy better than 1 ppm, enabling differentiation of isobaric compounds (e.g., lipid isomers).
   • Femtogram-level detection limits with a dynamic range exceeding 4 orders of magnitude, supporting simultaneous analysis of trace-level and high-abundance compounds.

2. Versatile Ion Dissociation Technologies

   • Features HCD (Higher-energy Collisional Dissociation), in-source CID, and other fragmentation modes, generating MS/MS spectra comparable to triple quadrupole instruments.
   • All-Ion Fragmentation (AIF) mode captures comprehensive fragment data in a single run, ideal for untargeted screening.

3. High-Efficiency Workflow

   • Rapid polarity switching (5 ms) and 12 Hz scan speed meet the demands of UHPLC-based high-throughput analysis.
   • Expanded mass range to 6,000 m/z, covering small molecules to biomacromolecules.

Key Applications

• Metabolomics/Lipidomics: Qualitative and quantitative analysis of complex lipids (e.g., sphingolipids) via Full MS/dd-MS² mode, with automated data processing using LipidSearch software.
• Pharmaceutical R&D: High-confidence metabolite identification and targeted quantification via PRM (Parallel Reaction Monitoring).
• Environmental & Food Safety: Screening of pesticide residues and illegal additives, compliant with regulatory requirements (e.g., EU 2021/808).

System Configuration & Maintenance

• Standard configuration includes Dionex Ultimate 3000 LC system with touchscreen operation for streamlined workflows.
• Low-maintenance design: Orbitrap mass analyzer requires minimal calibration but benefits from periodic ion optics cleaning (e.g., S-Lens) to maintain sensitivity.

Conclusion

The 2016 Q Exactive model remains a benchmark for complex matrix analysis, valued for its high resolution, stability, and multifunctionality in both research and industrial applications.

: Ion optics maintenance guide
: Q Exactive user experience
: Thermo Fisher technical manual