FAQs

What is the target market for our products?

We provide products that focus on improving capillary chromatography and nanospray interface devices for mass spectrometers in the field of proteomics.

What instrument does the ABIRD work on?

Our flagship product, the Active Background Ion Reduction Device, or ABIRD, works on any mass spectrometer that is using a nanospray interface device. These devices sample the laboratory air very efficiently and produce significant background ion signals depending on the composition of the lab air. Ion trap instruments benefit more from this effect, as the trap can fill with peptide ions rather than background ions, improving peptide detection sometimes quite dramatically.

Why does the CPS-2 make such a difference in chromatography?

Polished glass capillary ends do a couple of things very well. They fill the space in fittings completely, allowing less mixing and sample carry-over. A polished capillary will last much longer in a fitting and resist crushing at high pressures. Post column both effects are very important, as peak shape is easily distorted by bad plumbing.

Why are customers of ESI Source Solutions happier, better scientists?

Our users appreciate the time we take to discuss their current workflows and match either custom or off-the-shelf solutions to improve their chromatography and nanospray interfaces. With better chromatography and improved spray, users can focus on optimizing data acquisition and analysis rather than their UHPLC system.

What is the best capillary analytical column?

Now that is a loaded question! “Best” depends on the user and how they value factors like initial cost, expected lifetime, reliability, and sensitivity in their chromatography. all of these factors and their balance in your lab will allow us to recommend the “best” column for your system and workflows. Please take the time to discuss your needs with us and we will match the best products we have with you.

Why is a Pulled Tip column good and why is it bad?

A pulled tip glass capillary column is the least expensive and possibly the most sensitive column for proteomics analysis. This is because it has zero post-column pluming to worry about and can be made from inexpensive glass capillary tubing right in the lab. It is also highly variable, with columns lasting from one to one thousand injections before the column needs replacing. There is significant sample load limits, near 1ug generally, after which no voltage passes to the tip and it sputters for half of the run. A fritted glass column, on the other hand, uses a post-column liquid junction and can have tips in either glass or steel that are replaceable as needed. Need more reasons, get in touch with us we can go over more with you still.

Can ESI Source Solutions help set up your new or revamped lab?

Absolutely! Insight into common workflow problems and multi-instrument / brand solutions to your needs are what we do best. Check into our consulting service, we can help with any part of proteomics laboratory design, direction, and training.