Abstract: A mass spectrometer and methods for controlling a mass spectrometer are provided. In an exemplary embodiment, the mass spectrometer includes a plurality of discrete functional modules, each operable to perform a predetermined function of the mass spectrometer, wherein the modules are individually addressable and connected in a network. The mass spectrometer can also include a scheduler operable to introduce discrete packets of instructions to the network at predetermined times to instruct at least one module to perform a predetermined operation.

Abstract: A method for controlling the supply of ions from a liquid chromatograph through an ion source into a mass spectrometer. The ion source is foreseen to be either an electrospray ionization sources or an impaction spraying ion sources. The ion source can be operated in two modes: a mode in which ions are supplied into the mass spectrometer and a mode in which ions are prevented to be supplied into the mass spectrometer. In this latter mode, the supply of ions into the mass spectrometer is prevented by reducing the potential applied to the ionization source, reducing the nebulizer gas flow and/or increasing the cone gas flow.

Abstract: A mass spectrometer and methods for controlling a mass spectrometer are provided. In an exemplary embodiment, the mass spectrometer includes a plurality of discrete functional modules, each operable to perform a predetermined function of the mass spectrometer, wherein the modules are individually addressable and connected in a network. The mass spectrometer can also include a scheduler operable to introduce discrete packets of instructions to the network at predetermined times to instruct at least one module to perform a predetermined operation.

Abstract: A detachable and replaceable ion source for a mass spectrometer. The ion source comprises a housing which defines an ion source chamber, an ion source mounting means complementary to mounting means on the mass spectrometer to detachably couple with the mass spectrometer. This allows movement of the housing to bring the ion source chamber into a position of use at the inlet of said mass spectrometer and to take the ion source chamber from said position of use into a retracted position. Sealing means is provided to create an air tight seal between the housing and the mass spectrometer when the ion source chamber is in its position of use. A release mechanism is provided which cooperates with the mass spectrometer to allow the said movement of said housing.

Abstract: A detachable and replaceable ion source for a mass spectrometer. The ion source comprises a housing which defines an ion source chamber, an ion source mounting means complementary to mounting means on the mass spectrometer to detachably couple with the mass spectrometer. This allows movement of the housing to bring the ion source chamber into a position of use at the inlet of said mass spectrometer and to take the ion source chamber from said position of use into a retracted position. Sealing means is provided to create an air tight seal between the housing and the mass spectrometer when the ion source chamber is in its position of use. A release mechanism is provided which cooperates with the mass spectrometer to allow the said movement of said housing.