Shimadzu Scientific Instruments (SSI) announces the release of its MALDI-8020, marking SSI’s return to benchtop matrix assisted laser desorption ionization time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS). Through innovative instrument design, the space-saving MALDI-8020 achieves performance specifications similar to those of larger, more expensive MALDI-TOF models—but in a significantly smaller footprint.
The MALDI-8020 improves laboratory efficiency and accelerates analysis through a newly designed load-lock system for rapid sample target introduction and a solid-state laser for fast data acquisition speeds. Using linear time of flight, this compact MALDI-TOF system enables low-level detection of proteins, peptides and polymers, among other analytes. In addition, it easily accommodates standard laboratory workflows such as peptide mass finger printing for simple protein ID confirmation, in-source decay (ISD) and polymer distribution analysis.
Design features of the MALDI-8020 improve routine workflows and facilitate regular maintenance in order to maximize instrument up-time. An integrated barcode scanner allows for a seamless workflow from loading samples to obtaining results. Additionally, TrueCleanTM automated UV laser source cleaning and a new ion optic design ensure robust instrument performance to keep the instrument up and running.
The MALDI-8020, operated by MALDI Solutions software, is ideally suited for pharmaceutical QC labs as well as academic and industrial labs with limited laboratory space. MALDI Solutions offers intuitive, yet secure, operation including security, audit trails and user management, to help meet 21 CFR Part 11 compliance. Additionally, the simple and intuitive user interface makes this an ideal teaching tool.
Mr. Kozo Shimazu, Managing Director of Kratos Analytical (a wholly owned subsidiary of Shimadzu Corporation) said, “Kratos Analytical has a long history with MALDI-TOF technology going back to the 1990s when we released the ‘KOMPACT MALDI’ series of benchtop instruments. As instruments developed, there was a move toward floor-standing platforms. Recently, however, market demand has prompted the development of a smaller product that is capable of performing rapid screening through the intact analysis of samples.”
He added, “The MALDI-8020 represents a return to a benchtop MALDI-TOF system for Kratos and Shimadzu. Technological advances and improved instrument design have allowed us to reduce the size of the MALDI-8020, while at the same time maintain performance levels similar to those of some of our larger MALDI-TOF models.”