Thermo Fisher TSQ Quantum XLS Triple Quadrupole Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometer (Refurbished)

Overview

The Thermo Fisher TSQ Quantum XLS is a high-performance triple quadrupole gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS) system engineered for trace-level quantitative analysis in regulated and research laboratories. Operating on tandem mass spectrometry principles, it employs three independently controlled quadrupole mass filters—Q1 (mass selection), Q2 (collision-induced dissociation cell), and Q3 (mass analysis)—to deliver exceptional selectivity, sensitivity, and reproducibility in selected reaction monitoring (SRM) and high-sensitivity SRM (H-SRM) modes. Designed for demanding applications including environmental residue testing, food safety screening, clinical toxicology, and forensic analysis, the TSQ Quantum XLS integrates seamlessly with the Trace GC Ultra gas chromatograph and TriPlus 100 autosampler to form a fully validated, end-to-end analytical platform. Its robust architecture supports routine operation under high-throughput laboratory conditions while maintaining compliance with international regulatory frameworks.

Key Features

• DuraBrite IRIS ion source: Enhances signal stability and extends operational lifetime in complex matrix environments.
• 90° curved collision cell with zero crosstalk design: Minimizes background noise and improves fragmentation specificity during MS/MS transitions.
• Mass range of 1.2–3000 u: Enables detection of small volatile molecules as well as large semi-volatile compounds without hardware modification.
• Pulse Positive/Negative Ionization (PPINICI): Allows rapid switching between ionization modes without venting the vacuum system.
• TrueLock ion optics: Permits hot-swappable ion source components—including ion box replacement—without breaking vacuum or interrupting workflow.
• High-precision hyperbolic quadrupole rods: Deliver superior mass resolution and transmission efficiency across the full m/z range.
• Sub-millisecond dwell time capability (down to 1 ms): Supports simultaneous quantification of hundreds of analytes within a single GC run.
• QED-MS/MS functionality: Enables concurrent quantitation and structural confirmation using diagnostic fragment ions.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The TSQ Quantum XLS accommodates a broad spectrum of sample types—from pesticide residues in agricultural commodities to pharmaceutical impurities in dosage forms—when coupled with appropriate GC separation methods. It complies with ASTM D7575, EPA Method 8270D, ISO 17025, and USP for method validation requirements. All refurbished units undergo full functional verification per Thermo Fisher service protocols, including mass calibration, sensitivity verification (e.g., 1 pg OFN at S/N ≥ 500:1), and detector linearity assessment. Each system ships with documented IQ/OQ reports and is certified compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 for electronic records and signatures, supporting audit-ready data integrity in GxP environments.

Software & Data Management

Instrument control and data acquisition are managed through Thermo Scientific’s QuanLab Forms software—a modular, role-based application designed for regulated laboratories. Users can define acquisition methods, process batches, generate compliance reports, and export results directly to LIMS. EZ-Method allows direct import of SRM parameters from Excel spreadsheets based on compound retention times, reducing setup errors and accelerating method development. Audit trails, user access controls, electronic signatures, and secure data archiving are enabled by default. Raw data files (.raw) are stored in vendor-neutral formats compatible with third-party processing tools (e.g., Skyline, Compound Discoverer) for retrospective reprocessing.

Applications

• Multi-residue pesticide analysis in fruits, vegetables, and cereals per EU SANTE/11312/2021 guidelines.
• Endocrine-disrupting compound screening in wastewater and surface water matrices.
• Quantitative determination of mycotoxins (e.g., aflatoxins, ochratoxin A) in feed and food products.
• Residual solvent testing in pharmaceutical intermediates per ICH Q3C(R8).
• Forensic toxicology workflows involving amphetamines, opioids, and novel psychoactive substances (NPS).
• Stable isotope dilution assays (SIDA) for absolute quantification in clinical research.

FAQ

Is this instrument factory-refurbished or dealer-refurbished?
All TSQ Quantum XLS systems are professionally refurbished by certified Thermo Fisher service engineers following OEM specifications and include full recalibration, performance verification, and updated firmware.
What documentation accompanies the system?
Each unit ships with a Certificate of Conformance, IQ/OQ documentation, service history log, and 6-month limited warranty certificate.
Can the system be configured for LC-MS/MS operation?
While originally optimized for GC-MS/MS, the TSQ Quantum XLS platform supports optional API source upgrades (e.g., HESI, APCI) for LC compatibility; however, such modifications require separate validation and are not included in standard refurbishment.
Is remote support available post-installation?
Yes—SpectraLab Scientific provides remote diagnostics, software troubleshooting, and application consultation for the duration of the warranty period.
Are consumables and spare parts included?
Standard consumables (e.g., column nuts, ferrules, septa) are provided with initial setup; extended spares kits and source components are available upon request.