Mass Spectrometry Checking List

From Mswiki

MASS SPECTROMETRY CHECKING LIST SOP_Nov2006

1. Check solvent bottles (make sure there is enough solvent).

2. Check your LC method and MS method to ensure it is at the proper setting.

3. Check the current tune file to make sure:

(a) capillary temperature: 200C

(b) source voltage: 2.5 kV

(c) full micro scan: 1

(d) full max ion time (ms): 50

(e) SIM micro scan: 1

(f) SIM max ion time (ms): 50

(g) MSn micro scan: 1

(h) MSn max ion time (ms): 100

(i) ZOOM micro scan: 25

(j) ZOOM max ion time (ms): 100

4. If you need to change any tune file parameters, make a copy and use your OWN personal copy to run your samples. Do NOT change original current tune file.

5. Please check all the external settings before you assume that the instrument has some problem. Please be patient and give the instrument some time to stabilize.

6. If your Chromatogram and Spectra quality are not good, check the following items:

(a) spray status (make sure flow rate is at 200~300 nl/min, tip shape is good, column in not clogged, etc.)

(b) high voltage (make sure the switch is on and the metal plate is touching the electrode)

(c) LC pump pressure is normal (e.g. ~ 60 – 70 bar)

(d) all micro tees (make sure tees are not clogged or no leaking)

(e) column connections (make sure no leaking)

7. After checking all these, if you still have problems, please inform the person who is responsible the maintenance of that instrument.