High-performance miniature linear time-of-flight mass spectrometry as an advantageous tool in a high mass-to-charge range.

A miniature matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization linear time-of-flight mass spectrometer suitable for the high mass-to-charge ( m / z ) region is described. The instrument size is roughly 1/50th that of regular instruments, and detailed dimensions and experimental parameters were optimized based on the comprehensive calculation method to provide satisfactory mass resolving power. Observations showed that the performance is limited in the low m / z range and becomes comparable with that of regular instruments in the mid m / z range. In the high m / z range, the miniature instrument provides better mass resolving power and sensitivity than regular instruments, showing superior performance for microbial, protein conjugate, and polymer analyses.