Implementing Digital-Waveform Technology for Extended m/z Range Operation on a Native Dual-Quadrupole FT-IM-Orbitrap Mass Spectrometer

Here, we describe a digital-waveform dual-quadrupole mass spectrometer that enhances the performance of our drift tube FT-IMS high-resolution Orbitrap mass spectrometer (MS). The dual-quadrupole analyzer enhances the instrument capabilities for studies of large protein and protein complexes. The first quadrupole (q) provides a means for performing low-energy collisional activation of ions to reduce or eliminate noncovalent adducts, viz., salts, buffers, detergents, and/or endogenous ligands. The second quadrupole (Q) is used to mass-select ions of interest for further interrogation by ion mobility spectrometry and/or collision-induced dissociation (CID). Q is operated using digital-waveform technology (DWT) to improve the mass selection compared to that achieved using traditional sinusoidal waveforms at floated DC potentials (>500 V DC). DWT allows for increased precision of the waveform for a fraction of the cost of conventional RF drivers and with readily programmable operation and precision (Hoffman, N. M. et al.. A comparison-based digital-waveform generator for high-resolution duty cycle. Review of Scientific Instruments 2018, 89, 084101).

Automated summary

This study presents a digital-waveform dual-quadrupole mass spectrometer to improve the performance of a drift tube FT-IMS high-resolution Orbitrap mass spectrometer in studying large proteins and protein complexes. The dual-quadrupole analyzer allows for low-energy collisional activation of ions and precise mass selection using digital-waveform technology, enhancing the capabilities of the instrument at a lower cost compared to traditional RF drivers.