Question 1

Can I do polarity switching when using Orbitrap Exactive or Q Exactive mass spectrometry instruments? What is the time for polarity switching?

Accepted Answer

Yes, it is possible to work in polarity switching mode. The switching time is about 250 ms. With a resolution of 35,000 it takes about 1 s for a cycle of one positive and one negative scan (data point).

Find additional tips, troubleshooting help, and resources within our Mass Spectrometry Support Center.

Question 2

How often do I have to calibrate when using Orbitrap Exactive or Q Exactivemass spectrometry instruments?

Accepted Answer

Mass calibration should be performed daily by default. If the lab qualified the instrument in their controlled conditions, weekly calibration is fine. System calibration should be performed monthly. Generally, we specify less than 3 ppm mass deviation within 24 hr.

Find additional tips, troubleshooting help, and resources within our Mass Spectrometry Support Center.

Question 3

When using Orbitrap Exactive or Q Exactive mass spectrometry instruments, which resolution settings do I choose for different scan modes for the quantification of small molecules?

Accepted Answer

In PRM, you can choose a lower resolution because of the selectivity of MS2 ions.

If you need to do polarity switching in Full Scan mode, it is a good idea to reduce resolution to 35,000 to generate more data points. However, this might generate less data points.

If you want to work qualitatively, you might want to consider to work with lock masses and the highest resolution (fine isotopic pattern). View table here for suggested resolution settings.

Find additional tips, troubleshooting help, and resources within our Mass Spectrometry Support Center.

Question 4

When using Orbitrap Exactive or Q Exactive mass spectrometry instruments, how do I find the optimal settings for Automated Gain Control (AGC) and maximum injection time (IT)?

Accepted Answer

AGC targets of Full Scan: 1 x 10E6 and SIM/PRM: 2 x 10E5 are good starting points. The more similar the ions that are collected in the C-trap are, the lower the target should be.

Max IT:

View table here to see the scan times required for the different resolution settings.

In the simplest case, set the max IT to times just below these values - parallel acquisition.

In Full Scan mode, usually the defined max IT time is not used by the system as the ion flux is very high. In data dependent MS2 scans, the time can be extended to receive a better spectrum quality. However, this might generate less data points.

Find additional tips, troubleshooting help, and resources within our Mass Spectrometry Support Center.

Question 5

After servicing NanoDrop instruments, do you provide a service report listing the repairs made to the instrument?

Accepted Answer

A report is shipped back with each NanoDrop instrument listing the services that were performed and any parts that were replaced. We also provide you with an Instrument Certification Sheet which shows that the instrument passed recalibration and recertification.

Question 6

Do you provide “as found” and “after service” data for servicing of NanoDrop instruments?

Accepted Answer

If you specifically request “as found” and “after service” data when setting up the NanoDrop instrument service, we can provide results of a Performance Verification before and after the servicing.

Question 7

Will you send me a shipping label or can I use my own shipping provider to send in a NanoDrop instrument for servicing?

Accepted Answer

Upon receipt of confirmation of payment method, we will provide you a FedEx return shipping label and shipping instructions. Alternatively, we will waive the shipping cost if you decide to use your own carrier.

Question 8

Do I need a special shipping box for my NanoDrop instrument to send for servicing? If so, would you supply the shipping box and what is the cost?

Accepted Answer

The NanoDrop 2000/2000c, NanoDrop 8000, NanoDrop Eight, NanoDrop Lite, NanoDrop Lite Plus, and NanoDrop One/OneC instruments all need to be shipped in their original shipping box and packing foam. If you do not have those materials, we will send you a box and packing foam at no cost. The NanoDrop 3300 instrument can be shipped in any box you may have available.

Question 9

Does the NanoDrop instrument service cost include part replacements?

Accepted Answer

The cost for NanoDrop instrument service does not include any parts. If a part replacement is needed, we will contact you to obtain your authorization to replace the part.

Question 10

How do I pay for service for my NanoDrop instrument?

Accepted Answer

You can pay for NanoDrop instrument service with a purchase order or credit card. We accept Master Card, Visa, or American Express.

Question 11

What is the turnaround time for servicing NanoDrop instruments in the United States and Canada?

Accepted Answer

The turnaround time for servicing NanoDrop instruments in the United States is 48 to 72 hours. The turnaround time in Canada is approximately 2 days longer, depending upon the time spent in Customs in either direction. FedEx weather-related delays can also extend the turnaround time.

Question 12

Do you have onsite technicians for servicing NanoDrop instruments in the United States and Canada?

Accepted Answer

We do not have onsite technicians to perform service for Thermo Scientific NanoDrop instruments located in the United States and Canada. All service for Thermo Scientific NanoDrop instruments is performed by our trained service technicians at our service depot in Madison, WI.

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