Thermo Scientific Orbitrap Exploris 480 Mass Spectrometer - PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

Importance of the Topic

The Orbitrap Exploris 480 mass spectrometer represents a major advancement in high-resolution accurate-mass (HRAM) analysis, combining ultra-high-field Orbitrap technology with a robust quadrupole front end. Its streamlined design and intuitive software facilitate rapid method transfer and high sample throughput across proteomics, small-molecule analysis, and biopharma applications.

Objectives and Overview

This product specification document aims to present the key capabilities, hardware and software features, and performance metrics of the Orbitrap Exploris 480 system. Emphasis is placed on instrument robustness, ease of use, flexible acquisition modes, and integration with optional modules for enhanced selectivity and mass range extension.

Methodology and Instrumentation

• Electrospray Ion Source: OptaMax NG heated ESI probe with HESI and low-flow calibrant sprayer. Supports 1–1000 µL/min flows.
  
• Ion Optics: High-capacity transfer tube (HCTT), Advanced Active Beam Guide (AABG), segmented quadrupole (AQT), and ion-routing multipole for trapping and HCD fragmentation.
  
• Mass Analyzer: Ultra-high-field Orbitrap delivering up to 480 000 resolution (m/z 200) and mass range to m/z 6000 (extendable to 8000 with BioPharma option).
  
• Vacuum System: Six-stage pumping with aluminum high-vacuum chambers for efficient ion transmission.
  
• Internal Calibration: EASY-IC source for real-time calibrant generation achieving <1 ppm RMS mass accuracy.
  
• Software: Xcalibur and instrument control software for drag-and-drop method setup, plus optional Proteome Discoverer, BioPharma Finder, ProSightPC, and Compound Discoverer suites.
  

Main Performance Metrics and Discussion

• Scan Rate: Up to 40 Hz at 7500 resolution (m/z 200).
  
• Mass Accuracy: External <3 ppm RMS drift over 24 h; internal <1 ppm with EASY-IC.
  
• Sensitivity: MS/MS detection of 50 fg reserpine on column (S/N 100:1).
  
• Dynamic Range: >5000 within a single spectrum.
  
• Acquisition Modes: Full scan, SIM, AIF, DDA (TopN/TopSpeed), DIA, targeted PRM, and TurboTMT for TMT experiments.
  
• Additional Options: FAIMS Pro interface for gas-phase fractionation, BioPharma option for intact protein analysis to m/z 8000.
  

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Streamlined Workflows: Predefined templates and smart scheduling accelerate method development and execution.
  
• High Confidence Data: HRAM selectivity and advanced peak determination improve precursor annotation and quantitation.
  
• Versatility: Suitable for small molecules, peptides, intact proteins, post-translational modification analysis, and large complex characterization.
  
• High Uptime: Robust hardware and automated calibration maximize instrument availability.
  

Future Trends and Applications

Integration of advanced ion mobility techniques, deeper AI-driven acquisition strategies, and further enhancements in scan speed and resolution are expected. Applications such as single-cell proteomics, real-time reaction monitoring, and native mass spectrometry of large assemblies will benefit from modular expansions and software upgrades.

Conclusion

The Orbitrap Exploris 480 offers a balanced combination of performance, robustness, and user-friendly operation. Its modular design and comprehensive software environment support a wide range of analytical challenges, making it an effective solution for modern research and quality-control laboratories.

Reference

1. Thermo Scientific Tribrid, TSQ Altis, TSQ Quantis, and TSQ Fortis mass spectrometers comparative designs.