Waters Xevo TQ-S Triple Quadrupole Mass Spectrometer (Refurbished)

Overview

The Waters Xevo TQ-S is a high-performance triple quadrupole mass spectrometer engineered for demanding quantitative liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) applications. Operating on the principle of selected reaction monitoring (SRM) and multiple reaction monitoring (MRM), the system delivers exceptional sensitivity, specificity, and reproducibility across complex biological, environmental, and pharmaceutical matrices. Its orthogonal Z-spray ion source provides robust electrospray ionization (ESI) and atmospheric pressure chemical ionization (APCI) capabilities, enabling reliable detection of low-abundance analytes at sub-pg/mL levels in UPLC-scale separations. Designed as an integral component of the Acquity UPLC platform, the Xevo TQ-S achieves optimal duty cycle efficiency, minimized cross-talk, and enhanced dynamic range—critical for high-throughput quantitation in regulated environments such as clinical toxicology, residue analysis, and pharmacokinetic studies.

Key Features

• Triple quadrupole architecture with RF-only Q0 collision cell and high-transmission optics for improved MRM sensitivity and signal-to-noise ratio
• Orthogonal Z-spray ion source supporting simultaneous ESI+/ESI− and APCI polarity switching within a single run
• Integrated Acquity UPLC modules: Sample Manager (with needle wash and deep-well tray compatibility), Binary Solvent Manager (low-dispersion gradient delivery), and Column Heater (temperature-controlled from 5 °C to 90 °C)
• MassLynx 4.1 software suite with TargetLynx XS for automated calibration, peak integration, and compliance-ready reporting
• Rugged vacuum system with dual-stage turbomolecular pumps ensuring stable operation over extended acquisition periods
• Pre-owned unit fully refurbished, functionally validated, and calibrated per manufacturer-recommended protocols prior to shipment

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The Xevo TQ-S accommodates a broad range of sample types—including plasma, serum, urine, tissue homogenates, water extracts, and formulated drug products—when coupled with appropriate sample preparation workflows (e.g., protein precipitation, SPE, or LLE). Its hardware and software architecture support alignment with Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) and Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) requirements. MassLynx 4.1 enables audit-trail-enabled data handling compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 when deployed with proper system configuration and administrative controls. The instrument meets performance criteria referenced in USP , ICH Q2(R2), and ASTM D7091 for quantitative LC-MS/MS method validation, including precision, accuracy, linearity, and limit-of-quantitation verification.

Software & Data Management

Data acquisition, processing, and reporting are managed through Waters MassLynx 4.1 Software with TargetLynx XS extension. This environment supports method templating, batch sequence automation, real-time MRM optimization, and customizable report generation with embedded metadata (instrument parameters, calibration status, analyst ID, timestamps). Raw data files (.raw) are stored in vendor-native format and remain compatible with third-party platforms including UNIFI (for extended informatics) and open-source tools via .mzML conversion. All refurbished systems ship with licensed MassLynx 4.1 installation media, driver packages, and documentation—no dongle or activation lock required.

Applications

• Pharmaceutical bioanalysis: PK/PD studies, metabolite identification support, and impurity profiling in small-molecule drug development
• Clinical research: Therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM), newborn screening, and endogenous biomarker quantification (e.g., steroids, vitamins, neurotransmitters)
• Environmental testing: Pesticide residue analysis in food commodities, PFAS quantification in drinking water, and emerging contaminant screening
• Forensic toxicology: Multi-analyte panels for drugs of abuse, synthetic cannabinoids, and novel psychoactive substances
• Academic and contract research laboratories requiring regulatory-grade LC-MS/MS capability without capital equipment depreciation risk

FAQ

Is this instrument eligible for IQ/OQ/PQ documentation support?
Yes—SpectraLab Scientific provides optional Installation Qualification (IQ) and Operational Qualification (OQ) documentation packages aligned with ISO/IEC 17025 and GxP expectations.
Does the system include original manufacturer service history?
All units undergo full diagnostic logging; service records from prior ownership (where available and authorized for release) are provided upon request.
Can the Xevo TQ-S be upgraded to MassLynx 4.2 or later?
MassLynx 4.1 is fully supported; upgrade paths to newer versions depend on hardware compatibility and Waters’ current licensing policy—contact technical support for version-specific guidance.
What consumables and spare parts are included?
Standard consumables (ion source components, capillary tubing, pump seals) and essential accessories listed in the configuration are included; extended spares kits are available separately.
Is remote diagnostics and application support available post-purchase?
Yes—SpectraLab offers tiered technical support contracts including remote troubleshooting, method transfer assistance, and on-site service coordination where geographically feasible.