Thermo Unveils Enhanced Mass Spectrometry Portfolio for the First Time at PITTCON

Thermo Electron Corporation, the world leader in analytical instruments, will debut its innovative mass spectrometry technology at PITTCON® 2006.

Since the last PITTCON conference, Thermo significantly expanded its mass spectrometry capabilities with novel technologies including the LTQ™ Orbitrap™ hybrid mass spectrometer, the first totally new mass analyzer to be introduced to the market in over 20 years; the Finnigan™ LXQ™ linear ion trap mass spectrometer for high-throughput drug discovery and proteomics; and the DFS high resolution magnetic sector mass spectrometer for high-precision environmental analysis. Additionally, Thermo continues to expand its software offerings for its FinniganTM TSQ QuantumTM series of triple quadrupole mass spectrometers with the new LCQUANTM 2.5 data acquisition system.

Thermo’s LTQ Orbitrap combines its patented Orbitrap technology with the highly successful Finnigan LTQ linear ion trap in order to provide faster, more sensitive and more reliable detection and identification of compounds in complex mixtures. Additionally, its outstanding mass accuracy, mass resolution and reliable high sensitivity MSn performance make it a strong alternative to existing hybrid Time-of-Flight systems. The LTQ Orbitrap also delivers optimum performance for small molecule research, drug discovery, proteomics, metabolite identification and metabolomics.

The Finnigan LXQ linear ion trap mass spectrometer advances high-throughput drug discovery and proteomics by making linear trap performance a cost-effective option for fast-paced analytical laboratories. It features patented ion trap technology that results in ultra fast cycle times and improved ion statistics that dramatically increase sensitivity and speed over 3D ion traps.

The DFS, a new high-resolution double-focusing magnetic sector GC/MS, is the most sensitive, reliable and comprehensive instrument for target compound analysis available on the market. It is ideally suited for performing trace compound analyses of environmental samples such as dioxins, as well as for sports doping.

Thermo’s LCQUAN system features a bi-directional interface with WatsonTM LIMS (Laboratory Information Management System) to provide secure, digital data transfer that is tailored for bioanalysis. As well as enabling 21 CFR Part 11 compliance, this software package includes several new features including remote disc support, a workbook-style, centralized file location, a one-window, quantitation environment, and a digital, secure, bi-directional interface with Watson LIMS.

“Thermo has successfully executed its strategy to build the most comprehensive mass spectrometry product offering of any company in the industry,” said Marc Casper, senior vice president of Thermo Electron Corporation. “Through our aggressive R&D efforts and our focused acquisition strategy, we are uniquely able to satisfy the needs of both our life sciences and industrial customer bases. I am more excited than ever about our market position and our opportunity for growth.”