Waters Xevo TQ-S Triple Quadrupole LC-MS/MS System (Refurbished)
| Brand | Waters |
|---|---|
| Origin | USA |
| Model | Xevo TQ-S |
| Instrument Type | Tandem Quadrupole Mass Spectrometer |
| Ionization Compatibility | Electrospray Ionization (ESI), Atmospheric Pressure Chemical Ionization (APCI), and Optional Sources (e.g., ESCi, UniSpray) |
| Key Technology | StepWave™ Ion Optics, ScanWave™ Collision Cell, RADAR™ Acquisition Mode |
| Regulatory Alignment | Designed for GLP/GMP environments |
Overview
The Waters Xevo TQ-S is a high-performance, refurbished triple quadrupole liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) system engineered for demanding quantitative bioanalysis and qualitative structural confirmation workflows. Operating on the fundamental principle of selective reaction monitoring (SRM) and multiple reaction monitoring (MRM), the instrument delivers exceptional sensitivity, specificity, and reproducibility in complex matrix analysis. Its core architecture integrates UPLC®-optimized ion transmission pathways with robust vacuum management and thermally stable electronics—ensuring consistent performance across extended run times and multi-day validation protocols. The system is widely deployed in regulated laboratories conducting pharmacokinetic (PK) studies, metabolite identification, residue testing, environmental contaminant screening, and forensic toxicology—where regulatory traceability, method ruggedness, and data integrity are non-negotiable.
Key Features
- StepWave™ Ion Optics: A patented off-axis ion transmission pathway that minimizes neutral noise and chemical background while maximizing ion transmission efficiency—delivering up to 5× higher sensitivity in MRM mode compared to conventional axial ion guides.
- ScanWave™ Collision Cell: A dynamically tuned RF/DC-driven collision cell enabling simultaneous high-speed MRM quantification and high-fidelity product ion scanning—without sacrificing duty cycle or resolution.
- RADAR™ Acquisition Mode: A real-time, dual-channel acquisition strategy that concurrently records targeted MRM transitions and full-scan MS/MS spectra—enabling retrospective analysis of unanticipated compounds without re-injecting samples.
- Universal Ion Source Flexibility: Native compatibility with ESI, APCI, ESCi (electrospray/APCI combined), and UniSpray™ sources—allowing seamless method transfer across polarity-switching, thermolabile, or low-volatility analytes.
- UPLC® Integration: Fully synchronized with ACQUITY UPLC systems via direct digital communication, supporting sub-2-µm particle separations, gradient dwell volume compensation, and peak capacity optimization.
- Refurbishment Protocol: Each unit undergoes comprehensive OEM-level refurbishment—including detector recalibration, vacuum system rebuild, ion optic cleaning/replacement, and full functional verification against Waters’ Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) specifications.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The Xevo TQ-S accommodates diverse sample types—from plasma, urine, and tissue homogenates to food extracts, wastewater digests, and plant matrices—without requiring hardware modification. Its wide dynamic range (typically >4 orders of magnitude) and low pg/mL-level detection limits support both high-concentration residue screening and ultra-trace biomarker quantification. From a compliance standpoint, the system meets foundational requirements for ISO/IEC 17025-accredited testing labs and supports analytical method validation per ICH M10 and FDA Bioanalytical Method Validation Guidance. When operated with Waters UNIFI Scientific Information System or MassLynx v4.2+ under validated configurations, it enables full 21 CFR Part 11 compliance—including role-based access control, electronic signature capture, and immutable audit trails for all acquisition, processing, and reporting events.
Software & Data Management
Data acquisition and processing are managed through Waters’ enterprise-grade platforms: UNIFI for integrated workflow automation (including sample registration, sequence building, calibration curve generation, and report export), or MassLynx for granular instrument control and custom script-driven processing. Both environments support automated peak integration using ApexTrack™ algorithms, isotopic pattern matching for structural confidence, and batch processing of large-scale ADME or environmental datasets. Raw data files (.raw) are stored in vendor-neutral formats compatible with third-party review tools (e.g., Skyline, SimGlycan), and metadata embedding adheres to mzML 1.1 standards. Long-term archival follows ALCOA+ principles (Attributable, Legible, Contemporaneous, Original, Accurate, + Complete, Consistent, Enduring, Available) as defined by regulatory auditors.
Applications
- Quantitative bioanalysis of small-molecule drugs and metabolites in biological fluids under GLP conditions
- High-throughput ADME profiling during lead optimization and candidate selection
- Multi-residue pesticide and veterinary drug screening in food commodities per EU SANTE/2023/2022 guidelines
- Targeted analysis of PFAS, pharmaceuticals, and endocrine disruptors in surface water and wastewater
- Confirmatory identification of controlled substances and novel psychoactive substances (NPS) in forensic casework
- Endogenous metabolite quantification in untargeted-to-targeted translational research pipelines
FAQ
Is this a factory-refurbished unit or dealer-refurbished?
All units are refurbished to Waters OEM specifications—including replacement of consumable ion optics, detector components, and vacuum pumps—followed by full FAT execution and certificate issuance.
Does the system include source parts and spare columns?
Standard refurbishment includes one ESI source, one APCI source, and a set of source cleaning tools; UPLC columns are not included but can be procured separately with method-specific recommendations.
Can the Xevo TQ-S be upgraded to support high-resolution capabilities?
No—the Xevo TQ-S is a dedicated triple quadrupole platform; for accurate mass capability, Waters recommends the Xevo G2-XS QTof or SELECT SERIES Cyclic IMS systems.
What documentation accompanies the instrument?
Each shipment includes a Certificate of Refurbishment, FAT report, IQ/OQ protocol templates, maintenance logbook, and software license transfer documentation.
Is remote diagnostic support available post-installation?
Yes—Waters-certified field service engineers provide remote connectivity via TeamViewer-assisted troubleshooting, with optional annual service contracts covering preventive maintenance and priority response.
