Xevo TQ Absolute XR Triple Quadrupole Mass Spectrometer

Xevo TQ Absolute XR Triple Quadrupole Mass Spectrometer

Quantitate with Absolute Power and eXtreme Robustness

Quantitate with Absolute Power and eXtreme Robustness

Gain absolute confidence to make powerful decisions and reach lower limits of quantitation, maintaining optimum sensitivity for longer, with the Xevo TQ Absolute XR instrument.

Engineered for maximum productivity in a compact, sustainable design, the Waters Xevo TQ Absolute XR instrument features the new StepWave XR ion guide for enhanced resilience against contamination, even with high-throughput, complex sample matrices. That means more uptime, fewer interventions, and lab performance you can trust, all while aligning with your environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals.

An incredibly compact, more sustainable tandem quadrupole mass spectrometer, the Waters Xevo TQ Absolute XR enables your lab to achieve and maintain high performance and productivity. Xevo TQ Absolute XR Triple Quadrupole Mass Spectrometer
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Specifications

API sources and ionization modes

High performance ZSpray dual-orthogonal API sources:

1) Multi-mode source – tool free ESI/APCI/ESCi* (standard) NB – Dedicated APCI requires an additional probe (optional)

2) UniSpray ion source (optional)

3) Tool-free APCI probe (optional)

4) nanoFlow™ ESI source* (optional)

5) ASAP* (optional)

6) APGC ion source* (optional)

Optimized gas flow dynamics for efficient ESI desolvation

Tool-free source exchange

Vacuum isolation valve

Tool-free access to user serviceable elements

Plug-and-play probes

De-clustering cone gas

Software control of gas flows and heating elements

UniSpray ion source option

UniSpray is an ionization technique designed to broaden the scope of compounds which can be analyzed in a single run, including those which typically optimize in ESI, APCI or APPI. Enhanced ionization efficiency and desolvation allow the potential to combine several methodologies into one, or simply enable the operator to keep the same source for multiple methods, requiring less time performing set-up and routine maintenance, and more time delivering results

Ion source transfer optics

StepWave XR ion transfer optics deliver class leading UPLC-MS/MS sensitivity. The new resolving ion guide automatically removes higher mass contaminants while maintaining maximum sensitivity and speed.

The unique off-axis design dramatically increases the efficiency of ion transfer from the ion source to the quadrupole MS analyzer at the same time as actively eliminating undesirable neutral contaminants.

Mass analyzer

Two high-resolution, high-stability quadrupole analyzers (MS1/MS2), plus pre-filters to maximize resolution and transmission while preventing contamination of the main analyzers

Collision cell

T-Wave enabled for optimal MS/MS performance at high data acquisition rates;

Software programmable gas control

Detector

Low-noise, off-axis, long-life photomultiplier XDR Detector

Vacuum system

One splitflow turbomolecular pump

One vacuum backing pump

Regulatory approvals/marks

CE, CB, NRTL (CAN/US), RCM

* Not available with waters_connect.

Software

Systems supported on waters_connect and MassLynx version 4.2 or later

System setup and method development

System parameter checks and alerts

Integrated sample/calibrant delivery system + programmable divert valve Automated mass calibration

Automated sample tuning

Automated MRM method development

UPLC-MS/MS System Check – on-column performance test

Automated MRM scheduling (acquisition rate assignment)

Dwell time, inter-channel delay time and inter-scan delay time for individual channels in a Multiple MRM experiment can be automatically assigned (using the Auto-Dwell feature) to ensure that the optimal number of MRM data points per chromatographic peak are acquired. The Auto-Dwell feature dynamically optimizes MRM cycle times to accommodate retention time windows that overlap. This greatly simplifies MRM method creation, irrespective of the number of compounds in a single assay, while at the same time ensuring the very best quantitative performance for every experiment

waters_connect Software

The waters_connect Software provides a modern user experience with a HUB design and apps that provide a consistent connected user experience across all applications. It is built for applications with convenient access to scientific apps allowing accelerated time-to-results and result quality. There are common utilities that complete the end-to-end workflow and help increase productivity and efficiency. Confidently report results with accurate, reliable, regulation-standard data from application-focused quantitative workflows with built in traceability for utmost integrity.

Acquisition modes

Full scan MS

Product ion scan

Precursor ion scan

Constant neutral loss scan

Multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) Simultaneous Full scan and MRM (RADAR)

RADAR

An information rich acquisition approach that allows you to collect highly specific quantitative data for target compounds while providing the ability to visualize all other components

Mass range

2 to 2048 m/z

Compare Xevo TQ Systems

Compare Xevo TQ Systems

Xevo TQ-S cronos

Xevo TQ-S cronos

Xevo TQ-S micro

Xevo TQ-S micro

Xevo TQ-XS

Xevo TQ-XS

Xevo TQ Absolute XR

Xevo TQ Absolute XR

Dimensions (w x h x d)

Dimensions (w x h x d)

Dimensions (w x h x d)

Dimensions (w x h x d)

Dimensions (w x h x d)

Dimensions (w x h x d)

35.6 x 60 x 93 cm

35.6 x 60 x 93 cm

61 x 70.7 x 99.5 cm

43 x 79 x 96 cm

Sensitivity key

Sensitivity key

Sensitivity key

Sensitivity key

Sensitivity key

Sensitivity key

★★

★★★

★★★★

★★★★★

Mass range

Mass range

Mass range

Mass range

Mass range

Mass range

2 to 2048 m/z

2 to 2048 m/z

2 to 2048 m/z

2 to 2048 m/z

Chromatographic configuration compatibility

Chromatographic configuration compatibility

Chromatographic configuration compatibility

Chromatographic configuration compatibility

Chromatographic configuration compatibility

Chromatographic configuration compatibility

ACQUITY Arc*

ACQUITY Premier

ACQUITY UPC2*

ACQUITY UPLC

ACQUITY UPLC M-Class*

ACQUITY Premier

ACQUITY UPC2*

ACQUITY UPLC

ACQUITY UPLC M-Class*

APGC*

ACQUITY Premier

ACQUITY UPC2*

ACQUITY UPLC

ACQUITY UPLC M-Class*

APGC*

ACQUITY Premier

ACQUITY UPLC

ACQUITY UPLC M-Class*

APGC*

Ion sources compatibility

Ion sources compatibility

Ion sources compatibility

Ion sources compatibility

Ion sources compatibility

Ion sources compatibility

APCI

ASAP*

ESCi*

ESI

UniSpray

APCI

APGC*

ASAP*

ESCi*

ESI

ionKey*

Nanoflow*

UniSpray

APCI

APGC*

ASAP*

ESCi*

ESI

ionKey*

Nanoflow*

UniSpray

APCI

APGC*

ASAP*

DESI XS*

ESCi*

ESI

Nanoflow*

UniSpray

Acquisition modes

Acquisition modes

Acquisition modes

Acquisition modes

Acquisition modes

Acquisition modes

Full scan

Product scan

Precursor ion scan

Constant neutral loss scan

Multiple reaction monitoring (MRM)

Simultaneous Full Scan and MRM (RADAR) 

Full scan

Product scan

Precursor ion scan

Constant neutral loss scan

Multiple reaction monitoring (MRM)

Simultaneous Full Scan and MRM (RADAR)

Full scan

Product scan

Precursor ion scan

Constant neutral loss scan

Multiple reaction monitoring (MRM)

Simultaneous Full Scan and MRM (RADAR)

Full scan

Product scan

Precursor ion scan

Constant neutral loss scan

Multiple reaction monitoring (MRM)

Simultaneous Full Scan and MRM (RADAR)

Detector **

Detector **

Detector **

Detector **

Detector **

Detector **

Low noise, off axis, long life photomultiplier**

Low noise, off axis, long life photomultiplier**

Low noise, off axis, long life photomultiplier**

Low noise, off axis, long life photomultiplier**

Ion source transfer optics

Ion source transfer optics

Ion source transfer optics

Ion source transfer optics

Ion source transfer optics

Ion source transfer optics

StepWave

StepWave

StepWave XS

StepWave XR

MRM speed

MRM speed

MRM speed

MRM speed

MRM speed

MRM speed

555 MRM/ sec

555 MRM/ sec

500 MRM/ sec

500 MRM/ sec

Regulatory approval ***

Regulatory approval ***

Regulatory approval ***

Regulatory approval ***

Regulatory approval ***

Regulatory approval ***

Third party software interfaces

Third party software interfaces

Third party software interfaces

Third party software interfaces

Third party software interfaces

Third party software interfaces

LIMS interface

MassLynx SkyLine interface

LIMS interface

MassLynx SkyLine interface

LIMS interface

MassLynx SkyLine interface

LIMS interface

MassLynx SkyLine interface

MassLynx security

MassLynx security

MassLynx security

MassLynx security

MassLynx security

MassLynx security

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Software options

Software options

Software options

Software options

Software options

Software options
  • MassLynx v4.2
  • waters_connect for Quantitation
  • MassLynx v4.2
  • waters_connect for Quantitation
  • MassLynx v4.2
  • waters_connect for Quantitation
  • MassLynx v4.2
  • waters_connect for Quantitation

* Not available with waters_connect

** Less than 1% of Waters’ tandem quadrupole mass spectrometers require a detector replacement on an annual basis. [Source: Waters’ internal data on the service history of its tandem quadrupole mass spectrometers launched between 2006 and 2022]

*** Regulated approval marks include CE, CB, NRTL (Canada/USA), RCM

Overview

  • Absolute confidence: Experience up to six times more robustness1 with the new StepWave XR ion guide, designed for superior resilience to contamination. The Xevo TQ Absolute XR Mass Spectrometer ensures consistent, reliable performance, even under the most challenging analytical conditions.
  • Absolute performance: Push quantitation limits further and meet stringent regulatory requirements with up to 15x greater sensitivity2 for difficult-to-ionize negative mode compounds, setting a new benchmark in high-performance quantitation.
  • Absolute efficiency: Reduce your laboratory’s environmental impact and operational costs with a mass spectrometer that consumes up to 50% less electricity and gas while generating 50% less heat than other high-performance TQ instruments.
  • Absolute productivity: Streamline data analysis with waters_connect software, featuring Exception Focused Review (XFR) functionality to accelerate workflows, cutting data review time by up to 50% for more efficient, accurate results.
  • Absolute versatility: Choose from our differentiated range of source options to find the technology most suited to your applications including DESI XS, APGC, and UniSpray.


1In a well-controlled experiment, performance was maintained for up to six times the duration on the Xevo TQ Absolute XR compared to the Xevo TQ Absolute; more than 12,000 samples of pesticides in fish feed matrix were analyzed
2Compared to previous generation high performance tandem mass spectrometer, the Xevo TQ-XS.

Recommended Use: Reach lower limits of quantitation and meet regulatory requirements, even for challenging negative ionizing compounds.

Features Header

Features Header

Ensure Absolute confidence with eXtreme Robustness

The Xevo TQ Absolute XR Mass Spectrometer analyzes up to six times more samples before service maintenance is required. Get the answer right first time and reduce unplanned downtime! This is one example of multiresidue pesticide analysis in a complex matrix (fish feed), for more examples please visit the brochure.

Multiresidue Pesticides
Fish feed matrix was selected for this study, since it contains high levels of fatty acids. Samples were prepared by a simple QuEChERS extraction with no further clean-up, and the separation method did not include any divert to waste step. Monitoring the result of a quadrupole charging test, in which ion ratios between MRM transitions were compared, the Xevo TQ Absolute XR instrument indicates no quadrupole charging beyond 12,000 injections.

The Xevo TQ Absolute instrument can be seen to start charging about 1,500-2,000 fish feed matrix injections for fluazinam whereas the Xevo TQ Absolute XR instrument maintains the ion ratio out past 12,000 injections.
The Xevo TQ Absolute instrument can be seen to start charging about 1,500-2,000 fish feed matrix injections for fluazinam whereas the Xevo TQ Absolute XR instrument maintains the ion ratio out past 12,000 injections.

Achieve Absolute performance with improved sensitivity

To reach lower limits of quantitation and meet regulatory requirements, even for challenging negative ionizing compounds, you need an instrument that delivers absolute performance. The Xevo TQ Absolute XR instrument delivers up to 15x better sensitivity for challenging negative ionizing compounds than the previous product, so you can make confident decisions, faster.

The Xevo TQ Absolute XR instrument delivers up to 15x better sensitivity for challenging negative ionizing compounds than the previous product, so you can make confident decisions, faster.
The Xevo TQ Absolute XR instrument delivers up to 15x better sensitivity for challenging negative ionizing compounds than the previous product, so you can make confident decisions, faster.

Realize Absolute efficiency and lower operational costs

Many businesses are trying to actively address environmental sustainability while also reducing operational costs – and the Xevo TQ Absolute XR instrument helps make that possible.

With lower electricity consumption, gas consumption, and BTU/hr output, it lessens the demand for air conditioning and drives down energy costs. The minimized LC-MS/MS footprint of the Xevo TQ Absolute XR Mass Spectrometer delivers more analytical power per square foot, enabling lab managers to maximize space and drive greater operational efficiency.

The Xevo TQ Absolute XR instrument offers strong performance with less energy consumption in a compact form factor compared to today’s average high-end and high-end MS/MS systems, per data from published vendor site installation guides.
The Xevo TQ Absolute XR instrument offers strong performance with less energy consumption in a compact form factor compared to today’s average high-end and high-end MS/MS systems, per data from published vendor site installation guides.

1 Average high-and MS/MS* refers to typical values for alternative high-end products to Xevo TQ Absolute XR instrument.

2 Highest consuming high-and MS/MS* refers to highest values for alternative high-end products to the Xevo TQ Absolute XR instrument.

Achieve Absolute productivity with flexible software options

Unlock the full potential of the instrument when paired with our next-generation solution software. From automated data processing to the time-saving Exception Focused Review (XFR) feature, you’ll streamline data review time by up to 50% and spend more time advancing your science.

Built on a secure, traceable platform, waters_connect for Quantitation is built to accelerate your LC-MS/MS workflows. giving you the absolute confidence to scale, adapt, and lead in any environment.

For labs that need proven versatility across applications, the Waters MassLynx Software continues to deliver time-tested flexibility and control.

Accelerating your success with award-winning service

Ensure your laboratory runs efficiently and is ready to address the opportunities of tomorrow with the Waters comprehensive analytical solutions with expert training (APS) and flexible and cost-effective solutions to advance your business with system service (FlexCHOICE), trade-ins and technological upgrades (FlexUP).

Cover more applications from our range of complementary technologies

Choose from our comprehensive range of ionization technologies providing differentiated application coverage to get the most from your analyses.

  • UniSpray - Absolute potential unlocked. Enable your lab to improve process efficiency through potential gains in sensitivity, precision and reduced matrix effects, relative to the equivalent electrospray ionization source option.3

  • APGC - The next generation of GC is already here with Atmospheric Pressure Gas Chromatography offering labs absolute power - a powerful alternative to electron ionization technology, enabling low limits of detection, confident compound identification, and confirmation.

  • DESI XS - With a combination of mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) and tandem quadrupole mass spectrometry, a remarkable technique emerges to perform sensitive, fast, and quantitative MSI directly on sample surfaces. 

    3 https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00216-019-01886-z

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Support

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Xevo TQ Absolute XR Triple Quadrupole Mass Spectrometer

The Xevo TQ Absolute XR Triple Quadrupole Mass Spectrometer is the pinnacle of sensitivity, efficiency, and sustainability, designed to overcome the most demanding analytical challenges with confidence. This state-of-the-art instrument delivers exceptional performance, enabling laboratories to quantify even the most challenging small mass and negative ionizing compounds with unmatched precision. Whether your goals are meeting stringent regulatory requirements or advancing scientific research, the Xevo TQ Absolute XR provides the tools to achieve success with ease.

Reaching lower limits of quantitation for complex compounds is no longer a challenge. The Xevo TQ Absolute XR provides up to 15 times greater sensitivity for difficult-to-analyze negative ionizing compounds compared to its predecessor, ensuring faster, more confident decision-making. Whether analyzing polar pesticides, small organic molecules, or other challenging analytes, this mass spectrometer offers the performance needed to meet regulatory requirements and exceed expectations in routine and advanced workflows.

The Xevo TQ Absolute XR helps laboratories meet their environmental, social, and governance (ESG) commitments without sacrificing performance. It consumes approximately 50% less electricity and gas, produces 50% less heat, and requires less air conditioning compared to other high-performance TQ mass spectrometers, significantly reducing operational costs. Its compact footprint optimizes laboratory space, providing more analytical capability per square foot and supporting sustainable, efficient lab management.

Designed to streamline workflows and maximize productivity, the Xevo TQ Absolute XR is supported by flexible software options, including waters_connect and MassLynx. The modern, app-based waters_connect platform offers intuitive features like Exception Focused Review (XFR), which can reduce data review time by up to 50%. Meanwhile, the trusted MassLynx software provides unparalleled versatility for diverse application areas, allowing laboratories to choose the solution that best fits their unique needs.

The Xevo TQ Absolute XR is built for consistent robustness and reproducibility, minimizing downtime and ensuring reliable operation over extended periods. Its advanced source shield and optimal probe positioning guidance reduce contamination from sample matrix or mobile phase salts, maintaining peak performance and decreasing maintenance frequency. This ensures uninterrupted workflows, maximizing uptime and efficiency in even the busiest laboratories.

Waters supports your success with award-winning service and training solutions tailored to your needs. From flexible service plans like FlexCHOICE to trade-in and upgrade programs like FlexUP, Waters offers comprehensive support to keep your laboratory running smoothly and ready for future challenges.

Compact, powerful, and environmentally conscious, the Xevo TQ Absolute XR Triple Quadrupole Mass Spectrometer sets a new standard for tandem quadrupole mass spectrometry. By combining superior sensitivity, reduced operational costs, and streamlined workflows, this instrument enables laboratories to achieve absolute confidence in their results while advancing sustainability goals.

Experience the Xevo TQ Absolute XR difference and unlock new possibilities for your most challenging analyses.

FAQs About the Xevo TQ Absolute XR Triple Quadrupole Mass Spectrometer

1. What types of compounds can the Xevo TQ Absolute XR analyze?
The Xevo TQ Absolute XR is designed to analyze a wide range of compounds, including small molecules, polar pesticides, pharmaceuticals, metabolites, and environmental contaminants. Its exceptional sensitivity for negative ionizing compounds makes it ideal for challenging analytes that are difficult to quantify with traditional mass spectrometry systems. The system's versatility allows it to handle complex sample matrices across industries, including food safety, environmental testing, clinical research, and pharmaceutical development.

2. What is the minimum limit of quantitation (LOQ) that can be achieved with this system?
The Xevo TQ Absolute XR is capable of achieving extremely low limits of quantitation (LOQs), even for challenging compounds. With sensitivity improvements of up to 15 times compared to previous models, it can reliably detect and quantify trace-level analytes in complex matrices. The exact LOQ depends on the specific application, analyte, and experimental conditions, but the system is engineered to meet stringent regulatory requirements for even the most demanding workflows.

3. How does the system minimize carryover and contamination during analysis?
The Xevo TQ Absolute XR incorporates advanced features to minimize carryover and contamination, ensuring consistent performance and reliable results. It uses programmable method settings to reduce residual analytes, while its optimized source shield protects the instrument from contamination caused by sample matrices and mobile phase salts. Additionally, precise probe positioning minimizes the risk of contamination, extending the instrument's uptime and reducing the need for frequent maintenance or cleaning.

4. How does the Xevo TQ Absolute XR reduce electricity and gas consumption?
The Xevo TQ Absolute XR is designed with sustainability in mind, consuming approximately 50% less electricity and gas than traditional high-performance triple quadrupole mass spectrometers. Its energy-efficient design also produces 50% less heat output, reducing the demand for air conditioning in the laboratory. This not only lowers operational costs but also supports environmental sustainability by reducing the lab's overall carbon footprint. These efficiency improvements make the Xevo TQ Absolute XR an environmentally conscious choice for modern analytical laboratories.