Agilent InfinityLab Pro iQ Mass Detector (Data Sheet)

Significance of the topic

Mass spectrometric detection plays a pivotal role in analytical chemistry, underpinning applications in pharmaceutical development, environmental monitoring, food safety, and quality control. High sensitivity, mass accuracy, and robust operation are key factors for reliable detection and quantification of trace analytes in complex matrices.

Study objectives and overview

This data sheet evaluates the operational, performance, and physical specifications of the Agilent InfinityLab Pro-iQ G6160B mass detector. The primary aims are to document:

• Ambient and electrical operating requirements
• Key performance metrics including sensitivity, mass range, resolution, and stability
• Control and automation capabilities

Methodology

Performance was assessed under controlled conditions using reserpine as a test compound for sensitivity and signal-to-noise evaluation in selected ion monitoring (SIM) mode. Autotune and Scheduled Autotune routines optimized ion optics and mass calibration in both positive and negative ionization modes. Dynamic range, scan speed, polarity switching, and mass stability were measured at ambient laboratory temperature.

Instrumentation used

• Mass detector: Agilent InfinityLab Pro-iQ (G6160B)
• Control software: OpenLab CDS (version 2.7 or later) with single-point control of HPLC/UHPLC and LC/MS systems
• Ionization sources: Electrospray ionization (ESI), atmospheric pressure chemical ionization (APCI), multimode ionization (MMI)
• Vacuum: One turbomolecular pump coupled with one mechanical pump, Vacshield guard for capillary maintenance
• Detector: 10 kV conversion dynode with high-gain electron multiplier horn

Main results and discussion

• Sensitivity (ESI positive): Instrument detection limit (IDL) < 70 fg reserpine; signal-to-noise > 200:1 at 1 pg injection
• Mass range: m/z 2 to 1,600
• Mass resolution (FWHM): Narrow (0.4 Da at m/z < 1,500), Unit (0.7 Da), Wide (1.2 Da), Widest (2.5 Da)
• Mass accuracy: ± 0.1 Da up to m/z 999; ± 0.2 Da up to m/z 1,600
• Mass stability: < 0.1 Da drift over 24 hours at m/z 622
• Dynamic range: > 6 × 106 counts, enabling up to six orders of linear range from the limit of detection
• Scan performance: Maximum scan rate 15,000 Da/sec; minimum SIM dwell time 1 ms; polarity switching electronics ≤ 15 ms
• Power and environmental: 100–120 VAC or 200–240 VAC, 50/60 Hz; ambient operation 15–35 °C, humidity < 95% at 40 °C; altitude up to 3,000 m

Benefits and practical applications

The Pro-iQ detector offers:

• Exceptional sensitivity for trace analysis in bioanalytics and environmental testing
• Wide dynamic range for quantifying analytes across diverse concentration levels
• Fast scan rates and rapid polarity switching to support complex multi-analyte methods
• Automated tuning routines that enhance reproducibility and reduce setup time
• Single-point control integration with Agilent LC and LC/MS platforms for streamlined workflows

Future trends and opportunities

Emerging directions in mass spectrometric detection include:

• Integration of artificial intelligence for real-time method optimization and predictive maintenance
• Advances in ion source design to improve ionization efficiency and reduce matrix effects
• Development of compact, field-deployable MS systems leveraging Pro-iQ performance metrics
• Enhanced coupling with ion mobility separation for increased analytical specificity
• High-throughput automation to meet the demands of large-scale screening and QA/QC environments

Conclusion

The Agilent InfinityLab Pro-iQ G6160B mass detector combines high sensitivity, mass accuracy, and robust automation in a compact instrument. Its broad dynamic range, rapid scanning, and versatile ionization options make it well suited for demanding analytical tasks in research, development, and quality control.