100% Normalization-Calibration
This is a method of correcting quantitative results used in LA analysis. Correction is performed by multiplying the result by a coefficient so that the concentration of the matrix component is 100% or 1,000,000 ppm. For example, suppose you measure a sample consisting of almost 100% metal A and trace components of B and C and obtain the following results.
Before correction
A: 1,230,000 ppm
B: 55.0 ppm
C: 37.0 ppm
Multiply the whole by 1/1.23 so that matrix component A is 1,000,000 ppm.
After correction
A: 1,230,000 x (1/1.23)ppm = 1,000,000 ppm
B: 55.0 ppm x (1/1.23)ppm = 44.7 ppm
C: 37.0 ppm x (1/1.23)ppm = 30.1 ppm
Hydrogen and helium are frequently used as cell gases. By adding optional hardware, you can install the third cell-gas line to introduce another type of cell gas. The third type of cell gas is called the 3rd Cell Gas.
Acq param
Parameters that specify various conditions related to data acquisition, such as monitored masses, integration time, PeriPump parameters, and tune parameters.
Analysis File
See "Batch Result".
A list for selecting a data analysis method in the ICP-MS data analysis software. The possible options are "Spectrum", "Timechart", and "Chromatogram (Option)".
In this mode, plasma is on. Use this mode for acquisition.
See "Generic Method".
ATM Configuration
A function for specifying access restrictions for each command when using the optional software "User Access Control Pack".
Audit Trail Files
A file in which user operation on MassHunter is automatically recorded. This file is used to leave an audit trail that is necessary for laws and regulations such as 21CFR part11.
Auto Optimization
Automatic adjustment that optimizes the ion lens voltage to increase the sensitivity of the instrument.
A file that stores the information of both data analysis methods and data analysis results in the ICP-MS data analysis software.
Batch Wide Parameters
You can specify some tune parameters for [Batch Wide Parameter]. The parameters specified here are used as common parameters across all tune modes. If the value of a common parameter is changed in a tune mode, the change is reflected in all tune modes.
Blank Conc. Subtraction
A correction that subtracts a blank sample concentration from the concentration of an unknown sample. On the software, when "FQBlk" or "SQBlk" (blank sample) are specified as the sample type of the data file, the data file is processed as a blank sample and its concentration is subtracted from the concentration of the unknown sample.
A graph that plots the CPS values (or integration results for chromatogram analysis) against the concentrations obtained from analysis of a sample of known concentration. By using the regression formula of the calibration curve to convert the CPS of an unknown sample to a concentration value, you can calculate the concentration of the unknown sample.
Calibration Curve Level
Usually, a calibration curve is created by analyzing several samples, each of which has a known concentration. Each of the concentration values is called a level. For example, levels 1, 2, and 3 are set to 0, 5, and 10 ppb, respectively.
Check Samples
A blank sample or a sample of known concentration that is analyzed between conventional samples to check if the instrument is operating properly. Usually, this analysis is set by using a sequence function so that check samples are analyzed every time after the specified number of unknown samples are analyzed.
Chromatographic Data Analysis
Optional software. By enabling this, you can obtain peak detection and quantitation calculation for chromatogram data of LC or GC.
Abbreviation of Compound Independent Calibration. By using this function to analyze chromatograms, you can use the calibration curve of a compound to perform quantitative analysis of another compound. This allows you to perform quantitative analysis of a compound that is not contained in the standard solution but detected in an unknown sample.
Configure Tune Way
A dialog box for selecting the tune mode. You can select "Auto Tune", "Custom Tune", or "Signal Monitor".
Convert Data to AIA Format
A function for converting TRA data into the AIA format. The original data is saved as it is.
Convert Data to LC/MSD, GC/MS ChemStation Format
A function for converting TRA data into the LC/MSD, GC/MS ChemStation format. The original data is saved as it is.
A computation expression for obtaining the actual signal intensity by correcting the intensity of both target ions and other ions with the same mass.
The number of ions of a specific element that are detected by the detector within the integration time. The count is proportional to the concentration of the element in the sample.
Abbreviation of Counts per Second. The value of a CPS is calculated from counts divided by integration time.
CRE
Abbreviation of Common Reporting Engine. This provides new report templates and the reporting method introduced in MassHunter 4.1 and later. CRE is not compatible with previous reports that use Excel and are used in MassHunter versions earlier than 4.1.
CurveFitR
The correlation coefficient between data points of a calibration curve.
A tune method. Custom tune automatically optimizes the ion-lens parameters in the same way as autotuning. For custom tune, the user can modify the results after automatic optimization.
Parameters that specify various conditions related to data analysis, such as analytes, internal standard elements, the concentration for each calibration curve level, outlier settings, and QC parameters.
data batch
A folder that contains all acquisition-related data, such as the acquisition method, analysis method, tune parameters, sample list, and data files. The extension for a data batch is "*.b".
The dead time for the detector. In pulse mode acquisition, if multiple ions arrive at the detector during a period of time shorter than the specified time, the detector can only detect the first ion. Therefore, a counting loss occurs. When a dead time is measured and set to the instrument, the instrument can automatically correct the counting loss.
An automatic calibration function that measures the dead time for the detector and sets it as a system parameter of the instrument.
Divalent Ion
The divalent ion (M2+) for a metal ion (M+).
Divalent Ion Ratio
The ratio of divalent ion (M2+) counts to metal ion (M+) counts: (M2+)/(M+).
Abbreviation of Detection Limit, which means the detection limit of the instrument for each element. The equation for DL varies depending on the calibration formula.
Abbreviation of Extracted Ion Chart. This is a type of ion chart that plots specific mass counts against time.
Abbreviation of Electron Multiplier, which is a detector of ICP-MS.
Abbreviation of Early Maintenance Feedback. This function notifies you of times for instrument maintenance, such as changing oil for the rotary pump.
Error Action is a process performed when the measurement
result is beyond the allowable range set in advance.
NOTE: The terms "AOF", "Action on Failure", and "Action
Failure" have been changed to "Error Action" in MassHunter
4.4.
Error Action is a process performed when the measurement
result is beyond the allowable range set in advance.
NOTE: The terms "AOF", "Action on Failure", and "Action
Failure" have been changed to "Error Action" in MassHunter
4.4.
Abbreviation of Enhanced Stability Mode. This is a function for avoiding aging drifts due to matrices. For four ion-lens voltages at extraction electrode 1, extraction electrode 2, omega bias, and omega lens, the software automatically selects a suitable voltage combination that reduces the possibility of drifts. When using ESM, each of these ion-lens voltages is fixed to a value selected automatically and cannot be changed.
FullQuant Outlier(s)
A function that alerts you by applying colors to relevant cells on a batch table if there are any problems in the results of quantitative analysis, for example, the RSD of CPS is large or the obtained concentration exceeds the range of the calibration curve.
A category of preset methods. The preset method created for a specific application is called the application method. Other types of preset methods are called generic methods.
When global tune is enabled, only tune parameters are stored in the system. Startup and autotuning use the tune parameters as the initial values and reflect the optimized values to the tune parameters. Data collection is always performed based on the tune parameters.
Grace Period
When using the optional software "User Access Control Pack", you can specify to prompt the user to enter the user ID, password, and the reason for the change, every time the user performs specific operations (for example, an administrator approves an acquired data file). In some cases, however, the user may be prompted frequently, which may become tiresome. For example, when an administrator tries to approve something, the administrator is prompted to enter the ID and other information for each sample. To avoid this situation, you can specify to skip the prompts for a specified time period once the user enters the information. This time period is called the grace period.
Abbreviation of High Matrix Introduction. This is a plasma mode that uses a dilution gas to restrict the amount of a sample introduced from the spray chamber to plasma. By using this mode, you can analyze samples with a high matrix concentration.
MassHunter consists of two main parts; instrument control and data analysis. Instrument control communicates with the instrument to operate the instrument and collect data.
There are three modes in the ICP-MS instrument; analysis mode, standby mode, and shutdown mode. You can check the status in the [Status Viewer] dialog box, status bar, and the instrument status pane of MassHunter Workstation. For details, see the description of each term.
A function that monitors signal intensity during automatic rinsing after acquisition and continues the rinse until the signal intensity is less than or equal to the specified threshold value. This function reduces the effect of the previous sample remaining in the sample introduction system on the next sample.
Optional software for automatically performing accuracy management according to official requirements such as EPA6020 in the United States.
A method for correcting aging changes in the sensitivity of the instrument based on a constant concentration of metal constantly introduced in the introduction system.
An element used as a reference for internal standard correction.
Ion Chart
A chart that shows time on the horizontal axis and the signal intensity (counts) of ICP-MS on the vertical axis. This chart is mainly used to plot the chromatograms of LC, GC, and so on. There are two types: EIC that plots the counts of specific masses on the vertical axis, and TIC that plots the sum of the counts of all acquired masses.
A window that displays the isotopic abundance ratios of elements and molecular ions. Based on the isotopic abundance ratio of the element and molecular ion that you select, you can draw the expected isotopic abundance ratio on a mass spectrum.
Isotope Analysis
An analysis of isotopes of elements. The MassHunter software provides two analysis methods: isotope ratio and isotope dilution.
A method for calculating the concentration of a component contained in a sample. In this method, a known amount of an isotope is added to the sample and the result of isotope ratio measurement is used for the calculation. Because high-precision isotope ratio measurements can be performed, isotope dilution analysis provides a concentration with a higher precision than standard quantitative analysis.
An analysis method for determining the isotope ratio of elements in a sample.
ISTD Mass
The mass of an element used as the reference for internal standard correction.
A function that displays the analysis results for a QC check sample across multiple batches in a single graph. By using this function, you can monitor long-term changes in the state of the instrument.
An automatic testing function for checking that there is no leakage in the cell gas line.
UI for selecting whether to use "Standard Tune" or "User Tune" as the Startup.
Lock UI Time
When you use the optional software "User Access Control Pack", you can specify to lock the screen if MassHunter is not operated for a specified time. Use this parameter to specify the time until the screen is locked.
Maintenance Log
A function for recording the maintenance log with entries such as oil replacement for the rotary pump and cleaning the sampling cone.
Mass Bias Correction
When you measure an isotope ratio, a measurement error may occur due to the difference in sensitivity between the two masses used in the calculation. By measuring a sample of a known isotope ratio, you can correct the difference. This correction is called mass bias correction.
Meter
A function for displaying the pressures and gas flow rates of various vacuum systems in the software in real time. Click [Meter] from the [Meter] group on the [View] tab to select up to five items. The values are displayed in the Instrument Status pane.
Method of Standard Addition (MSA)
A method for creating a calibration curve by adding a standard solution of known concentration to a sample. In this method, a standard solution is directly added to the sample. Therefore, this method can be used to completely correct matrix effects such as signal suppression or enhancement.
Nebulizer Gas is argon gas that is introduced into
the nebulizer. A sample solution is sprayed by the nebulizer, and then
the mist that forms is introduced into the ICP-MS with the nebulizer gas.
NOTE: The term "Carrier Gas" has been changed to "Nebulizer
Gas" in MassHunter 4.4.
Nebulizer Gas is argon gas that is introduced into
the nebulizer. A sample solution is sprayed by the nebulizer, and then
the mist that forms is introduced into the ICP-MS with the nebulizer gas.
NOTE: The term "Carrier Gas" has been changed to "Nebulizer
Gas" in MassHunter 4.4.
Noise Algorithm (Noise Alg.)
A method for calculating noise values in the S/N ratio calculation of a chromatogram. There are two types: [RMS], which provides the RMS noise value, and [Peak To Peak], which provides the difference between the maximum and minimum values.
Outlier
A function that applies color to data in a batch table if any problems occur in the data. For details, see FullQuant Outlier(s) and SemiQuant Outlier(s).
Oxide Ion
The oxide ion (MO+) for a metal ion (M+).
Oxide Ion Ratio
The ratio of oxide ion (MO+) counts to metal ion (M+) counts: (MO+)/(M+). In general, plasma conditions become more robust (that is, the sample decomposes more efficiently in the plasma and is stronger against matrices) as this value is smaller.
P/A Factor
There are two detector operation modes: pulse mode and analog mode. In pulse mode, the detector returns the number (count) of ions introduced in the detector. In analog mode, the detector returns a current reading proportional to the count instead of the count. The P/A factor is used to convert the current reading to the corresponding count.
Performance Report
A report for checking and recording the basic performance of the instrument, such as the sensitivity, background, peak shape, and various hardware parameters.
Periodic Block
A function of the sample table. You can use this function to analyze a specific sample every time the specified number of samples are analyzed or the specified time has elapsed. Usually, this function is used to regularly analyze a blank sample or sample of known concentration to check the performance of the instrument during continuous acquisition.
Plasma Mode
When you use preset plasma, you can specify the plasma conditions by selecting one of the predefined options, such as "Low Matrix" and "General". These options are called plasma modes.
preemptive rinse
A function that starts rinsing before acquisition ends to reduce the rinse time after sample acquisition. When the preemptive rinse operates, the autosampler moves to the rinse port or rinse vial before acquisition ends. The sample introduction system has a dead volume, and it takes time until the rinse solution reaches the nebulizer. While the rinse solution is entering the sample introduction system, the acquisition continues using the sample remaining in the sample introduction system. A parameter called "preemptive time" is used to specify how early the rinse starts before acquisition ends. The specified preemptive time must be shorter than the time taken for uptake.
pre-emptive time
A parameter that specifies how early the preemptive rinse starts before acquisition ends.
Pre-Run Monitor
A function that monitors signals from the ICP-MS before acquisition starts and plots a graph of the signals on the software. By using this function, you can check on the graph that the sample has been successfully introduced in the instrument and the signals are stable, and then manually start the acquisition.
Preset Method
A file in which typical acquisition conditions and acquisition parameters for a specific application are predefined. In general, the most useful way of using a preset method is to create a batch from the preset method and edit parameters as needed.
Probe Rinse
A PeriPump parameters that specifies the length of time for rinse performed on the rinse port of the autosampler after acquisition ends.
Probe Rinse1 to Probe Rinse3
Parts of the PeriPump parameters. You can specify to rinse the rinse port after performing Rinse1 to Rinse3 after acquisition ends. You need to specify the rinse time and the peripump speed. You can set up to three sets of conditions.
prohibited mass
If a large number of ions are introduced in a detector, the lifetime of the detector may be reduced. To avoid this acquisition problem, you can set prohibited masses to prevent the acquisition of masses that are predicted to create extremely-large signal intensity.
QC Configuration
A window of the Intelligent Sequence software. In this window, you can create a sample type for intelligent sequencing and define a comparative expression for intelligent sequencing for the sample type.
QC Report
A report containing the evaluation results for a QC check sample.
quant
A method for calculating the concentrations of analytes in an unknown sample by using a calibration curve created by analyzing a standard solution sample of known concentration.
Queue
A list of tasks MassHunter must process. For example, when a user requests the MassHunter software to collect data, perform a Startup, and so on, the tasks are added to a list called queue, and the software processes tasks in the queue on a first-in, first-processed basis.
Quick Batch Report
A function that outputs the quantitation results of all samples for the entire batch as one report.
Quick Scan
A function for acquiring full spectra within a short integration time before conventional data collection. You can perform semiquantitative analysis for data acquired with this quick scan. By using this approach, you can obtain the approximate concentration of an element not acquired in conventional data collection.
Ramp Cell Gas
A function on the tune window. This function acquires both blank and tuning solutions while changing the flow rate of cell gas and plots a graph. Based on the obtained data, the user can determine the suitable flow rate of cell gas.
Replicate
When the acquisition mode is spectrum, you can set [Replicate] as the acquisition parameter. You can specify a value from 1 to 100. A mass spectrum is repeatedly acquired the specified number of times, and data analysis is performed by averaging the acquired spectra.
Rinse1 to Rinse3
Parts of the PeriPump parameters. Enter the rinse time, pump speed, and vial position when you want to rinse at the rinse port and additionally rinse with dilute nitric acid after acquisition ends. You can set up to three sets of conditions.
S/N Ratio
The ratio of the background and signal calculated in chromatogram analysis.
Sample List
One of the settings on a sample table. This list contains only some analytes. You can use a sample list when you want to analyze only some analytes for a specific sample. By specifying a sample list for a specific sample, you can analyze only the analytes included in the sample list.
Sample Load
One of the AVS parameters that specifies the length of time to fill the AVS sample loop with a sample before acquisition ends.
Sample Type
This specifies the role of each sample, such as calibration standard, background, or QC sample. For example, if you specify "Bkgnd" as the sample type, it is processed as a background and used for background subtraction.
Sample Uptake
One of the PeriPump parameters that specifies the length of time for sample uptake in the sample introduction system before acquisition ends.
Sampling Period
In data acquisition in TRA mode, multiple mass spectra are acquired repeatedly until the specified acquisition time elapses. The period of time taken to acquire each of the mass spectra is called the sampling period.
Semi Quant
The rough CPS per concentration is available for each element. Semiquantitative analysis is a calculation method that uses the value (SemiQuant factor) to obtain the concentration from the CPS. Although the obtained concentration is less accurate than quantitative analysis, you can easily calculate approximate concentrations even for elements that are not in the standard solution.
SemiQuant Factor
The factor used for semiquantitative analysis. This factor is an approximate CPS per concentration of an element. There are predefined default values for the no gas mode and He mode.
SemiQuant Factor Correction (SQ Factor Correction)
A function that corrects a SemiQuant Factor curve using a standard solution sample of known concentration. On the software, when "SQStd" (SemiQuant standard sample) is selected for the sample type of a data file, the data file is used for correction.
SemiQuant Factor Curve
A graph that plots the SemiQuant factors against atomic numbers. After SemiQuant factor correction is performed, a green curve for after correction is displayed together with a blue curve for before correction.
SemiQuant Outlier(s)
In semi quant, if (1) the CPS ratio of isotopes of an element differs from its natural abundance and (2) there is a huge peak at a mass 16u less than the analyte mass, then the oxide ion corresponding to the peak may interfere with the analyte, and the obtained results may be incorrect. This function alerts you by applying color to relevant cells on the batch table if there are any problems in the results of semi quant.
Shortage Test
An automatic testing function for checking if there is a short circuit in the ion-lens wiring. This function applies a voltage to the ion lens and checks if the intended voltage can be applied.
Shutdown mode
In this mode, the instrument is energized, but the vacuum pump is stopped (and also plasma is turned off). Unless an emergency has occurred, turn off the instrument in this mode.
spectrum data
ICP-MS has two acquisition modes: Spectrum and TRA. Data acquired in Spectrum mode is called spectrum data.
Stability Graph
A graph that shows time-dependent changes in the CPS values of a QC sample and internal standard during sequence acquisition. By using this graph, you can check if there is a problem in the status of the instrument during continuous acquisition.
Stabilize (Stabilization)
One of the PeriPump parameters that specifies the length of stabilization time until the actual acquisition starts after sample uptake in the sample introduction system.
Standby Mode
In this mode, plasma is off, but the instrument is energized and the vacuum pump is operating. When you are not using the instrument, set the instrument to this state.
Startup
A function that automatically collects data to adjust the instrument or checks the performance after plasma is ignited.
Abbreviation of Total Ion Chart. This is a type of ion chart that plots the total of all mass counts acquired against time.
time resolved analysis
Another name for TRA mode.
time resolved data
ICP-MS has two acquisition modes: Spectrum and TRA. Data acquired in TRA mode is called time resolved data.
Tune Check
A function that outputs a tune report to check the performance of the instrument before batch data collection starts or during collection. This function is available when [Tune Check Function in Batch] is selected in the [Options] category in the [Settings] dialog box.
Tune Mode
The ICP-MS can perform acquisition for a single sample
by switching multiple acquisition conditions. Each set of the acquisition
conditions is called tune mode.
The maximum tune mode number is 16 on Agilent 7800/7900/8900 ICP-MS, and
8 on Agilent 7700/8800 ICP-MS.
Tune Report
A report for checking the tuning status of each tune mode, such as the sensitivity, background, and peak shape, included in a batch.
TuneParamet er
A set of various parameters that specify the status of the instrument during acquisition. Tune parameters contain the flow rates of various gases, electrical power applied to plasma, peripump speed, voltages applied to various ion lenses and detectors, Q-pole parameters, and so on.
User Tune
Usually, a Startup is executed with tune parameters called "Standard Tune". Standard Tune is maintained by the system and cannot be modified by users. When "User Tune" is selected for the Startup, Startup can be executed with any specified tune parameters. By using User Tune, you can perform a Startup for organic solvents, GC, and so on, which have different analysis conditions to the Standard Tune.
Abbreviation of Virtual Internal Standard. If drifts depend on masses, you must select internal standard substances that have masses close to the masses of the analytes. However, the elements suitable for internal standard substances are limited. Therefore, it is not always possible to select substances that have masses that are close to the masses of the analytes. To resolve this problem, you can interpolate analysis data of internal standard substances to calculate the count of a virtual internal standard substance that has the same mass as the analyte and use the count for corrections. If a mass-dependent drift occurs, this function enhances the accuracy of internal standard corrections.
Weighting
A function for calculating a regression formula by applying a different weight to each data point on a calibration curve according to the predefined rule. For example, by using 1/x or 1/y as a weight function, you can put more weights on data points around the origin. This allows you to avoid large deviations in the regression formula from the origin.
Work List Action
You can specify to run a script after acquisition or analysis ends for each sample during a data analysis task. By using this function, you can perform additional operations, such as outputting text for LIMS for each sample.