Agilent InfinityLab Pro iQ Plus Mass Detector (Data Sheet)

Significance of the topic

The Pro iQ Plus mass detector extends LC/MS capabilities by delivering exceptional sensitivity, mass accuracy, and operational flexibility. Its trace-level quantification and broad compound coverage are critical for pharmaceutical development, environmental monitoring, and food safety analyses.

Goals and overview of the study

This data sheet presents the operational, performance, and physical specifications of the Agilent G6170A Pro iQ Plus mass detector. It highlights key parameters defining the instrument’s analytical capabilities and suitability for high-sensitivity mass spectrometric applications.

Methodology and instrumentation

The Pro iQ Plus integrates with Agilent Infinity II/III HPLC/UHPLC and single quadrupole LC/MS systems under OpenLab CDS control. Supported ionization sources include electrospray ionization (ESI), atmospheric pressure chemical ionization (APCI), multimode ionization (MMI), and Agilent Jet Stream (AJS). Automated SWARM tuning optimizes ion optics and mass calibration. The detection assembly features a high-energy conversion dynode, high-gain electron multiplier, a turbomolecular pump combined with a mechanical pump, and a vacshield to protect the ion injector capillary.

Main results and discussion

Sensitivity evaluation using reserpine shows an IDL below 20 fg with AJS and below 70 fg with ESI at 99% confidence. Signal-to-noise ratios exceed 550:1 for AJS and 200:1 for ESI at 1 pg loads. The mass range spans m/z 2–3000, with resolution down to 0.4 Da at m/z < 1500. Mass accuracy remains within ±0.1 Da (m/z 2–999), ±0.2 Da (m/z 1000–1999), and ±0.3 Da (m/z ≥ 2000) over 24 hours. The dynamic range surpasses six orders of magnitude, polarity switching completes in ≤ 15 ms, and maximum scan rates reach 15,000 Da/s.

Benefits and practical applications

High sensitivity and broad dynamic range support trace-level analysis in complex matrices. Flexible ionization options and automated tuning enhance method robustness and reproducibility. Seamless integration with OpenLab CDS streamlines workflows in QA/QC and research laboratories.

Used Instrumentation

• Agilent G6170A Pro iQ Plus mass detector
• Electrospray ionization (ESI), atmospheric pressure chemical ionization (APCI), multimode ionization (MMI), Agilent Jet Stream (AJS)
• OpenLab CDS (CDS 2.7 or later) for instrument control

Future trends and possibilities

Emerging directions include higher resolution mass analyzers, AI-driven method development, miniaturized portable MS systems, and enhanced automation for real-time monitoring and data analysis.

Conclusion

The Agilent InfinityLab Pro iQ Plus mass detector combines rapid polarity switching, automated optimization, and high-sensitivity detection to address diverse analytical challenges across pharmaceutical, environmental, and food safety sectors.

Reference

Agilent Technologies Inc. Agilent InfinityLab Pro iQ Plus Mass Detector Data Sheet, 2025