Abstract: An IMS device is provided that includes at least one surface, first and second pluralities of electrodes disposed on the surface, and an ion path having first and second accumulation regions and a separation region. The IMS device is configured to receive, guide, temporally separate, and discharge ions. Each accumulation region is configured to switch between accumulation and release states in which ions are accumulated and released therefrom, respectively. The separation region is positioned downstream of the first accumulation region and configured to temporally separate ions based on mobility. The first accumulation region is synchronized with a downstream mass filter while the second accumulation region is dependent upon the state of a gating element, which is positioned downstream of the IMS device and configured to control the flow of ions to a mass analyzer. A method in accordance with the foregoing is also provided.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for preventing the loss and/or corruption of process data stored by data collection and/or test instruments (referred to hereinafter collectively as "recording instruments"), which may otherwise result from events such as the removal of aforementioned storage media while data transfer operations are in progress; loss of power to the recording instrument while data transfer operations are in progress; and/or the execution of internal CPU traps or other CPU reset conditions while data transfer operations are in progress. The methods and apparatus contemplated by the invention also provide for the recovery of process data which has been corrupted during a power loss or CPU reset when normal operation of a recording instrument resumes.