Agilent Multimode Ion Source Technical Overview Application Note

About this manual

This document provides a technical overview of the Agilent Multimode Ion Source, which allows for high-flow, high-sensitivity electrospray (ESI) and atmospheric pressure chemical ionization (APCI) to be performed independently or simultaneously on a single sample injection. It addresses the fundamental differences between ESI and APCI that typically require separate instruments or sequential analysis.

The source features a compact design with distinct 'ESI zone' and 'APCI zone'. A key innovation is the use of infrared (IR) emitters to aid in drying the aerosol, reducing nitrogen gas consumption compared to standard sources. The document details how these emitters maintain optimal vapor temperature via feedback control and describes the interchangeable nature of the source on supported Agilent 1100 Series LC/MSD instruments.

What's inside

• Introduction
• ESI vs APCI Differences
• Multimode Source Features
• Experimental Setup
• Concepts behind Simultaneous Operation
• ESI Zone Design
• Infrared Emitters and Drying
• APCI Zone Operation

Frequently asked questions

What is the typical nitrogen consumption of an instrument using a multimode source?

Typical nitrogen consumption is 5—7 L/min using the multimode source.

Which Agilent LC/MSD models support the multimode source?

The multimode source is supported on G1946 LC/MSD instruments, models B, C, and D, and on all G1956 LC/MSD instruments, models A and B.