Ion Trap – Fourier Transform Mass Spectrometer

The Finnigan LTQ FT combines Ion Trap and Fourier Transform ICR technologies. This allows high resolution, accurate mass determinations and MS n to be available for high throughput analysis on a single instrument. The instrument consists of three major components: a new generation ion trap mass spectrometer, a high transmission ion guidance system, and an ICR analyzer based on a 7 T super conductive magnet. High mass resolution using this mass spectrometer enables the life scientist to quickly analyze complex mixtures. Because the determination of accurate mass is based on the measurement of single ion species, components of a mixture can be characterized simultaneously, eliminating the need for further development or analysis time. Its accurate mass capability allows the determination of the elemental composition of an ion for complete structural elucidation. The concept of MS n was first introduced on the Finnigan LCQ, with n equaling up to 10.