Waters UPLC + Xevo TQD Triple Quadrupole Liquid Chromatography Mass Spectrometer

Overview

The Waters UPLC + Xevo TQD is a high-performance, second-hand triple quadrupole liquid chromatography mass spectrometer system engineered for robust quantitative bioanalysis and regulated laboratory environments. Integrating ultra-high performance liquid chromatography (UPLC®) with the Xevo TQD mass spectrometer, this platform leverages electrospray ionization (ESI) and atmospheric pressure chemical ionization (APCI) to deliver high-sensitivity, high-specificity multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) detection. The system operates on collision-induced dissociation (CID) within a T-Wave™ collision cell—enabling efficient fragmentation and enhanced duty cycle for narrow UPLC peaks (typically 2–3 seconds wide). Designed for compliance-critical workflows, it supports method development, validation, and routine quantitation in pharmaceutical QC, clinical research, environmental testing, and food safety applications.

Key Features

• Integrated UPLC separation module delivering sub-2 µm particle column performance with backpressure tolerance up to 15,000 psi
• Xevo TQD triple quadrupole mass spectrometer with T-Wave collision cell architecture for improved transmission efficiency and dwell-time flexibility
• RADAR™ acquisition mode: Simultaneous qualitative screening and quantitative MRM analysis in a single run—enabling matrix interference assessment, metabolite detection, and impurity profiling alongside target analyte quantification
• Intelligent automation suite: InliStart for automated system suitability checks; QuanPedia for rapid MRM transition library generation; QCMonitor for real-time parameter deviation alerts during acquisition
• TargetLynx XS software for fully automated peak integration, calibration curve fitting (linear/log-linear), and audit-trail-enabled reporting compliant with 21 CFR Part 11 requirements
• TrendPlot functionality for longitudinal performance tracking—including detector response, retention time stability, and internal standard recovery across batches, days, or months

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The UPLC + Xevo TQD accommodates diverse sample matrices including plasma, serum, urine, tissue homogenates, environmental water extracts, and formulated drug products. Its universal ion source design supports interchangeable ESI, APCI, and ASAP configurations without hardware modification. All operational software modules are validated per GAMP 5 guidelines and support full GLP/GMP documentation workflows. Data integrity features include electronic signatures, user access controls, version-controlled method storage, and immutable audit trails—ensuring alignment with FDA 21 CFR Part 11, ISO/IEC 17025, and ICH M10 regulatory expectations.

Software & Data Management

Instrument control, data acquisition, and processing are unified under MassLynx 4.2 and TargetLynx XS software platforms. Raw data files (.raw) are stored in vendor-native format with embedded metadata (instrument parameters, sequence logs, calibration history). Export options include CSV, PDF, and XML for LIMS integration. Secure data archiving is supported via networked storage with configurable retention policies. Software licensing is transferable upon instrument re-commissioning; optional extended support contracts include remote diagnostics, firmware updates, and application specialist consultation.

Applications

• Pharmaceutical bioanalysis: PK/PD studies, therapeutic drug monitoring, and metabolite identification in preclinical and clinical trials
• Impurity and degradation product quantification per ICH Q3B(R2) and Q5C guidelines
• Residue analysis in food and agricultural commodities (e.g., pesticides, veterinary drugs, mycotoxins)
• Environmental contaminant screening: PFAS, pharmaceuticals in wastewater, endocrine disruptors in surface water
• Forensic toxicology: Multi-analyte panels for drugs of abuse, synthetic cannabinoids, and novel psychoactive substances
• Endogenous biomarker validation in discovery proteomics and metabolomics workflows

FAQ

Is this unit fully refurbished and performance-verified prior to resale?
Yes—each UPLC + Xevo TQD system undergoes comprehensive functional testing, including sensitivity verification (1 pg on-column caffeine S/N ≥ 500:1), mass accuracy (< 0.2 Da), and retention time precision (RSD < 0.3% over 10 injections). A full calibration certificate and test report are provided.
Does the system include original software licenses and documentation?
All units ship with original MassLynx and TargetLynx installation media, license keys, and printed operator manuals. Electronic copies of service records and previous calibration reports are available upon request.
What level of technical support is available post-purchase?
Standard support includes 30-day remote assistance for installation and basic operation. Optional annual maintenance agreements provide priority phone/email support, on-site service dispatch, and preventive maintenance visits.
Can the system be upgraded to newer software versions or add-on modules?
Yes—the platform is compatible with MassLynx 4.3 and later releases. Optional upgrades include UNIFI Scientific Information System integration, MS-Empower bridge for Waters Empower CDS environments, and additional ion source kits (e.g., DESI, nanoESI).
Are consumables and spare parts still available for this model?
Waters continues to supply critical consumables (e.g., T-Wave collision cell components, ion source gaskets, UPLC column hardware) and maintains an active spares inventory for Xevo TQD systems through authorized distribution channels.