Transputer mass spectrometers

This chapter briefly discusses the advantages to be gained from the use of transputers in acquiring and processing data from an instrument like a mass spectrometer, which routinely deals with large-scale input and output at high speed. 

Computers, often combined with transputers, are used for three main functions when connected to a mass spectrometer. The foremost requirements involve the acquisition and preprocessing of basic data and the control of the instrument s scanning operations. Additional software programs are available to manipulate the preprocessed data in a wide variety of ways depending on what is required, e.g., a mass spectrum or a total ion chromatogram. 

Chapter 42 Computers and Transputers in Mass Spectrometers, Part A... 

Powerful mass spectrometer/computer systems can achieve simultaneous foreground/background operation, especially if transputers are used to provide the advantage of parallel processing. 

A computer attached to a mass spectrometer is used both to acquire data and to control the operation of the spectrometer. Powerful transputer systems can be used to ensure that both modes of operation can be carried out almost simultaneously. 

A ruggedized PC is used for control of the mass spectrometer and the peripheral modules as well as for the acquisition, processing, storage, evaluation, and output of measured data. The Bruker ATLIF transputer interface card works as the interface to the mass spectrometer. 

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