Chromatography and mass spectrometry data systems

MS data systems form an integral part of the total chromatography-MS package. The computer system is based on a workstation frequently a PC running under MS Windows. The software comprises four integrated modules  

A methods file is created for each analysis to specify the standard conditions to be used such as autosampler sequence, use of blanks and QA samples, column temperature programme, mobile phase composition and flow-rate, split ratios, mass range to be scanned, scan rate and sample identification codes. A methods menu leads the analyst through the full set-up sequence. Methods are filed for future reference and for use in routine analysis. The software can be linked to other standard packages such as word processors so the methods data can be linked to the results file and then transferred to the analytical report. 

Considerable amounts of data are generated during an analysis. Data acquisition algorithms are continuously sampling the mass spectrometer detector signal at a predetermined scan rate usually about 5s . At least 10 seans are required to accurately describe a chromatographic peak. Each 

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