Scout 384 Ion Source

The Bruker Reflex III MALDI-ToF instrument utilises Pulsed Ion Extraction (PIE) to increase resolution and mass accuracy. PIE delays the extraction of ions from the source until some time (variable) after the laser has been fired at the sample. By controlling the time delay and the ion source field gradient, time-lag focusing of ions is achieved, and ionisation is effectively separated from extraction.

The instrument at the IFR and JIC Joint Proteomics Facility features the SCOUT384 ion source. This ion source utilises a target with dimensions of standard microtitre plate technology, precise X-Y positioning and 384 sample positions (see below for photograph of MALDI target plate).