Thermo Scientific Orbitrap Tribrid MS Series: Instrument Control Software v.3.5 and v3.5 SP1 Overview

Importance of the topic

The Orbitrap Tribrid series is widely used in small molecule and proteomics analyses. Regular software updates introduce new capabilities that enhance data quality, improve workflow efficiency, and enable advanced acquisition strategies. The v3.5 and v3.5 SP1 releases focus on expanding instrument support, real-time decision making, and streamlined calibration to meet growing demands in structural elucidation and high-throughput applications.

Study objectives and overview

This release overview describes new features in Instrument Control Software v3.5 and v3.5 SP1 for the Orbitrap Tribrid family. Key goals include support for the new IQ-X system, enhanced real-time library search, expanded AcquireX workflows, automated calibration, FAIMS Pro Duo integration, and improvements in ion detection and fragmentation control.

Applied instrumentation

• Orbitrap Tribrid MS systems: ID-X, Fusion, Fusion Lumos, Eclipse
• Orbitrap IQ-X Tribrid with Auto-Ready Ion Source and FAIMS Pro Duo Interface
• Instrument Control Software v3.5 and v3.5 SP1
• Xcalibur 4.5 data acquisition platform
• Chromeleon CDS compatibility for GMP-compliant control

Methodology and instrument control features

Developers introduced Real-Time Library Search to match MS2 spectra against custom mzVault or mzCloud databases on the fly, guiding MSn triggering for small molecule structure elucidation. The AcquireX workflow was expanded with an “Advanced Deep Scan” to coordinate multiple sample groups, inclusion/exclusion lists, blanks, and customizable parameters. Auto-Ready Ion Source automates weekly calibration checks, purity assessments, and one-click tune operations. FAIMS Pro Duo Interface support was extended to all source types, with optimized compensation voltage switching and unified carrier gas management. Additional updates include Advanced Peak Determination as a standard, support for m/z 40 in MSn scans, Mild Trapping for labile compounds, and flexible HCD collision energy settings including target-specific values.

Main results and discussion

The new software demonstrated robust real-time identification of unknown but related molecules through intelligent MSn decisions. AcquireX enhancements increased throughput and sample throughput flexibility. Auto-Ready Ion Source reduced manual calibration time and maintained system performance. FAIMS Pro Duo integration improved ion transmission at nano- to high-flow rates. Expanded low-mass detection and mild trapping preserved fragile analytes while advanced peak determination reduced false MS2 triggers.

Benefits and practical applications

• Faster, automated calibration reduces downtime
• Real-time library search enhances confident structure assignment
• Flexible AcquireX workflows accelerate large-scale metabolomics and environmental studies
• FAIMS Pro Duo extends separation capabilities across flow regimes
• Customizable fragmentation parameters improve targeted analysis

Future trends and possibilities

Ongoing developments may integrate machine learning-driven acquisition decisions, deeper library connectivity, and expanded cloud-based analytics. Further automation of calibration and diagnostics could lead to fully self-optimizing systems. Enhanced multi-omics workflows and real-time feedback will drive novel applications in drug discovery, clinical testing, and environmental monitoring.

Conclusion

The Orbitrap Tribrid ICSW v3.5 and SP1 updates deliver significant advances in automation, dynamic acquisition, and instrument versatility. These enhancements streamline workflows, improve data quality, and open new avenues for complex small molecule and proteomics investigations.

Reference

No formal literature cited in the source material.