Thermo Scientific ISQ 7000 Gas chromatograph-mass spectrometer

The Thermo Scientific ISQ 7000 mass-selective detector is a single-quadrupole system for gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The instrument is designed for laboratories carrying out routine quality control, high-throughput screening and analysis in accordance with regulatory requirements in the fields of food safety, environmental monitoring, clinical and forensic investigations.A key design feature of the system is NeverVent technology, which allows the ion source and chromatographic column to be replaced without releasing the vacuum or switching off the instrument. This solution reduces downtime during routine maintenance to as little as three minutes and lowers operating costs. The patented V-Lock vacuum coupling system ensures a leak-tight connection without the need for tools.The range of ion sources comprises two models. The standard ExtractaBrite source is made from inert materials and features a dual-filament design. The flagship version, featuring an Advanced Electron Ionisation (AEI) source, delivers superior sensitivity thanks to the optimised geometry of the ion-optical system. For operation with electron and chemical ionisation (both positive and negative), it is possible to switch between modes without opening the vacuum system or replacing the source. The ion source is heated to 350 degrees Celsius, which prevents the build-up of non-volatile residues and extends service intervals. The mass analyser is based on an S-shaped curved ion path design with a four-pole monitor. This configuration filters out neutral particles, reduces chemical noise and protects the main quadrupole from contamination. The main mass filter is made from a solid piece of uncoated molybdenum, which allows it to be cleaned and extends its service life. The detectable mass range is from 1.2 to 1,100 atomic mass units. The scanning rate reaches 20,000 atomic mass units per second, enabling simultaneous data acquisition of the total ion current and selected ions in a single injection. The DynaMax XR system, featuring an off-axis dynode and a secondary electron multiplier, is used for ion detection. This design provides a linear dynamic range of up to nine orders of magnitude. The system supports the following scanning modes: full mass range, selected ion monitoring, and combined data acquisition using both methods simultaneously. The AutoSIM and Timed-SIM functions simplify method development by automatically distributing the detection time for target ions across the chromatographic profile. The software includes the Chromeleon CDS and TraceFinder packages. The integrated eWorkflow electronic workflows and libraries of pre-installed methods for typical tasks (e.g. in accordance with US EPA standards) reduce method development time. The SmartTune tool automatically configures the system and ensures signal reproducibility throughout long analytical runs. Integration with laboratory information systems is achieved via standard protocols. The software complies with the requirements of 21 CFR Part 11, which is critical for laboratories operating in regulated sectors.The system is compatible with Thermo Scientific TRACE 1300 and 1310 series gas chromatographs, as well as with the AI/AS 1310, TriPlus 500 and TriPlus RSH autosamplers.