Waters Xevo TQ-S micro Triple Quadrupole LC-MS/MS System (Rental Unit)

Overview

The Waters Xevo TQ-S micro is a compact, high-performance triple quadrupole liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) system engineered for robust quantitative bioanalysis and small-molecule characterization in regulated and research laboratories. Leveraging Waters’ proven StepWave ion optics and low-noise, off-axis photomultiplier tube (PMT) detector architecture, the system delivers exceptional sensitivity—achieving sub-femtogram-level detection limits—while maintaining high reproducibility across extended acquisition periods. Its core measurement principle relies on selective precursor ion isolation in Q1, collision-induced dissociation (CID) in the RF-only collision cell (q2), and product ion filtering in Q3, enabling highly specific multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) transitions with minimal chemical noise. Designed for operational continuity, the Xevo TQ-S micro integrates seamlessly with Waters ACQUITY UPLC, ACQUITY Premier, and ACQUITY UPC² systems, supporting both electrospray ionization (ESI), atmospheric pressure chemical ionization (APCI), atmospheric pressure gas chromatography (APGC), and ambient ionization sources such as ASAP and DESI. Its footprint—35.6 × 60 × 93 cm—optimizes benchtop utilization without compromising analytical throughput or regulatory readiness.

Key Features

• Compact form factor with full-spectrum triple quadrupole performance: achieves up to 555 MRM transitions per second while maintaining <1% CV precision over 24-hour sequences.
• StepWave ion transmission optics: enhances ion transmission efficiency and reduces polyatomic interferences through differential pumping and ion focusing.
• Dual software platform support: MassLynx v4.2 (with TraceLynx™ for GLP-compliant workflows) and waters_connect™ (supporting 21 CFR Part 11 audit trails, electronic signatures, and role-based access control).
• Modular ion source interchangeability: enables rapid switching between ESI, APCI, APGC, UniSpray™, and Nanoflow configurations without hardware recalibration.
• Integrated vacuum system with oil-free forepump: minimizes maintenance intervals and supports uninterrupted operation for >72 hours under typical LC-MS/MS duty cycles.
• RADAR acquisition mode: synchronizes full-scan MS and targeted MRM data collection within a single injection—critical for method development and untargeted screening validation.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The Xevo TQ-S micro accommodates diverse sample matrices—including plasma, urine, tissue homogenates, environmental extracts, and pharmaceutical formulations—across concentration ranges spanning 3–4 orders of magnitude. It meets essential regulatory requirements for GxP environments: fully compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 (when configured with MassLynx Security Pack or waters_connect), ISO/IEC 17025:2017 (for testing laboratories), and USP <1225> validation guidelines. Instrument qualification documentation—including IQ/OQ/PQ templates, calibration records, and system suitability test (SST) protocols—is provided with each rental unit. All hardware and firmware revisions adhere to Waters’ global service bulletin updates, ensuring alignment with current ASTM D7892-21 (LC-MS/MS method validation) and ICH M10 (bioanalytical method validation) expectations.

Software & Data Management

Data acquisition, processing, and reporting are managed via two validated platforms. MassLynx v4.2 offers granular control over instrument parameters, peak integration algorithms, and report generation—fully auditable with timestamped operator logs and change history tracking. waters_connect provides centralized deployment across multi-instrument networks, LIMS integration via HL7 and ASTM E1384-compliant interfaces, and automated backup to network-attached storage (NAS) or cloud repositories (AWS S3, Azure Blob). Both platforms support Skyline import/export for cross-platform method transfer and enable secure remote monitoring through TLS 1.2–encrypted web portals. Audit trail configuration complies with ALCOA+ principles (Attributable, Legible, Contemporaneous, Original, Accurate, Complete, Consistent, Enduring, Available).

Applications

• Quantitative bioanalysis of small-molecule drugs and metabolites in clinical trial samples (Phase I–IV), supporting PK/PD modeling and regulatory submissions to EMA, PMDA, and FDA.
• Residue analysis in food safety testing (pesticides, veterinary drugs, mycotoxins) per EU Commission Regulation (EC) No 37/2010 and USDA FSIS directives.
• Environmental monitoring of PFAS, pharmaceuticals, and endocrine disruptors in wastewater and surface water at sub-ppt levels.
• Impurity profiling and forced degradation studies in API manufacturing under ICH Q3B(R2) and Q5C guidelines.
• High-throughput screening in drug discovery, including ADME-Tox assays and target engagement quantification using stable isotope-labeled standards.

FAQ

Is the Xevo TQ-S micro suitable for GLP-compliant laboratories?
Yes—when deployed with MassLynx Security Pack or waters_connect, the system supports full 21 CFR Part 11 compliance, including electronic signatures, audit trail review, and user privilege management.
Can I integrate this rental unit with our existing LIMS?
Absolutely—the system provides native HL7, ASTM E1384, and ODBC-compliant interfaces for seamless bidirectional data exchange with major LIMS platforms.
What level of technical support is included during the rental term?
All rentals include 24/7 remote diagnostics, scheduled preventive maintenance, on-site engineer dispatch for critical failures (within 4 business hours), and access to Waters’ global application support team.
Are method transfer packages available for this instrument?
Yes—Waters-certified method migration services are offered, including column compatibility assessment, parameter optimization, and comparative performance verification against legacy platforms.
Does the rental include consumables and spare parts?
Standard consumables (ion source components, LC columns, solvents) are customer-responsible; however, critical spares—including detector assemblies and RF lenses—are stocked onsite or available under expedited logistics agreements.