Thermo Fisher TSQ Quantum Access MAX Used Triple Quadrupole Liquid Chromatography Mass Spectrometer
| Brand | Thermo Fisher |
|---|---|
| Origin | USA |
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Import Status | Imported |
| Model | TSQ Quantum Access MAX |
| Instrument Type | Triple Quadrupole (TQ) |
| Mass Range | 10–3000 m/z |
| Sensitivity | S/N ≥ 100:1 (1 pg reserpine, ESI+) |
| Resolution | 0.5–0.7 m/z (FWHM) |
| Mass Accuracy | ≤ 0.1 Da (external calibration) |
Overview
The Thermo Fisher TSQ Quantum Access MAX is a high-performance, used triple quadrupole liquid chromatography mass spectrometer (LC-MS/MS) engineered for demanding quantitative and qualitative analysis in regulated and research laboratories. Based on the proven QqQ architecture, it employs collision-induced dissociation (CID) in a pressurized RF-only collision cell to generate structurally informative product ions, enabling highly selective multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) and data-dependent acquisition (DDA). Its core design emphasizes robustness, reproducibility, and compliance-ready operation—making it especially suited for environmental monitoring, food safety testing, clinical toxicology, and pharmaceutical impurity profiling where regulatory traceability and method validation are essential.
Key Features
- High-Selectivity SRM (H-SRM): Delivers exceptional specificity through optimized dwell times and dynamic MRM scheduling, supporting simultaneous quantification of hundreds of analytes in a single LC run without sacrificing sensitivity or chromatographic resolution.
- Quantitative Enhanced Data-dependent MS/MS (QED-MS/MS): Integrates targeted quantification with intelligent, triggered full-scan MS/MS acquisition—enabling concurrent quantitation and structural confirmation within the same analytical sequence.
- Fast Polarity Switching: Sub-second polarity reversal between positive and negative ion modes ensures comprehensive coverage of multi-class analytes (e.g., pesticides, mycotoxins, pharmaceuticals) in complex matrices without manual intervention.
- Zero-Crosstalk Collision Cell: A segmented, pressurized RF-only collision cell minimizes precursor ion carryover and suppresses chemical noise, reducing false-positive identifications in high-throughput screening applications.
- Ion Max Source & HESI-II Probe: Thermally stable electrospray interface with heated electrospray ionization (HESI-II) provides consistent ionization efficiency across wide concentration ranges and diverse compound classes.
- FAIMS Compatibility: Supports integration with Thermo Scientific FAIMS Pro interface for additional gas-phase separation—enhancing selectivity in co-eluting analyte scenarios without modifying LC methods.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The TSQ Quantum Access MAX accommodates a broad range of sample types—from aqueous extracts and biological fluids to fortified food homogenates and environmental digests—when coupled with standard reversed-phase, HILIC, or mixed-mode LC columns. It meets key performance criteria outlined in ASTM D7622 (pesticide residue analysis), ISO 17025 (testing laboratory competence), and FDA Guidance for Bioanalytical Method Validation. System-level audit trails, user access controls, and electronic signature support align with 21 CFR Part 11 requirements when deployed with compliant LIMS or CDS platforms (e.g., Thermo Fisher Chromeleon CDS v7.3+). Routine calibration and performance verification follow USP and guidelines.
Software & Data Management
Instrument control and data processing are managed via Thermo Fisher’s Xcalibur software platform (v2.2 or later), which supports method templating, automated calibration, batch processing, and report generation with configurable pass/fail criteria. The integrated spectral library search engine enables rapid identification by matching acquired MS/MS spectra against reference libraries (e.g., NIST, Wiley, or custom-built libraries). All raw data files (.raw) are stored in open-format directories compatible with third-party processing tools (e.g., Skyline, Compound Discoverer) for secondary interpretation and reprocessing. Audit trail logs record operator actions, parameter changes, and instrument status events with timestamps and user IDs—ensuring full traceability during GLP/GMP audits.
Applications
- Multi-residue pesticide screening in fruits, vegetables, and cereals per EU SANTE/11312/2021 guidelines
- Residual veterinary drug quantification in milk, meat, and aquaculture products (AOAC 2012.01)
- Pharmaceutical impurity profiling and stability-indicating assay development (ICH Q2(R2))
- Clinical toxicology workflows including therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) and forensic panel analysis
- Environmental contaminant detection—e.g., PFAS, brominated flame retardants, and endocrine disruptors—in wastewater and soil extracts
FAQ
Is this unit refurbished or certified pre-owned?
This TSQ Quantum Access MAX has undergone full functional validation by an authorized Thermo Fisher service partner, including mass calibration, sensitivity verification, and vacuum integrity testing. Documentation includes a Certificate of Performance Verification.
Does it include original software licenses?
Yes—the system ships with valid, transferable Xcalibur software licenses (including Quant Browser and Qual Browser modules) and associated dongles or activation keys.
What LC systems are compatible?
It is fully compatible with Thermo Fisher Ultimate 3000 RSLC and Vanquish UHPLC systems, as well as third-party LC platforms supporting analog voltage or digital trigger outputs for synchronization.
Can it be upgraded to support newer firmware or accessories?
Hardware-based upgrades (e.g., FAIMS Pro, advanced ion sources) are available subject to compatibility assessment; firmware updates require active Thermo Fisher support contract.
What documentation accompanies the instrument?
Full set includes original installation manuals, service records, calibration reports, electrical safety certification, and a detailed handover checklist signed by the commissioning engineer.
