Standing up a new instrument, or a new team, doesn’t have to slow your lab down. With the right training, your staff can become confident, safe, and productive in days, not weeks.
SpectraLab’s Instrument User Training equips your team with the skills needed to operate, maintain, and troubleshoot lab instruments effectively. The result? Fewer errors, accurate results, and instrument longevity.
Our Training Programs
We offer a wide range of instrument training options tailored to your needs
Instrument Familiarization Training
Preventative Maintenance Training
Customized Training
Instrument Familiarization Training
Ideal for both new users and experienced staff to refresh knowledge. Can be offered at SpectraLab Scientific, remotely through videoconferencing, or on-site at your facilities.
Foundational understanding and basic operation of the instrument will be taught to the user. This includes instrument operation, software navigation (entry of method parameters, run sequence configuration, data acquisition), and calibration procedures (where appropriate).
Strategies for parameter adjustments to optimize data acquisition (method development) and sample preparation techniques are not included.
Preventative Maintenance Training
Can be offered at SpectraLab Scientific or on-site at your facilities.
Instrument-specific multi-day training course to provide hands-on experience and a solid understanding of how to perform routine maintenance and troubleshooting of your analytical system.
Curriculum can include:
Foundational understanding of the operation and basic maintenance of the instrument
Routine maintenance of the instrument
Calibration and tuning procedures
Installation/setup and disassembly of instrument
Troubleshooting strategies for common to moderate difficulty problems related to instrument hardware (such as solvent/gas leaks, sample/solvent blockages, temperature/pressure control)
Troubleshooting strategies for common to moderate difficulty problems related to data acquisition (such as baseline problems, peak shapes, sample retention/carry over, stability issues)
Customized Training
Fully tailored programs designed for your team’s specific instruments, workflows, or project goals. Customized training can involve method development support and expert advice from experienced instrument users.
What you can get with SpectraLab Scientific
✅ Customized course content specific to your instrument model.
✅ Relevant course topics taught by experienced specialists with years of practical instrument-use and instrument-repair experience.
✅ Hands-on training tailored to your lab instruments and focused on practical solutions to commonly occurring problems.
✅ Certificate of Training Completion for each participant.
Mass spectrometry (MS) has long been recognized as one of the most powerful techniques for chemical and biological analysis. From identifying unknown compounds to quantifying trace contaminants, MS provides unmatched sensitivity and precision. It is a cornerstone technology in pharmaceutical development, environmental testing, food safety, proteomics, and materials research.
The challenge? The newest, top-of-the-line MS systems often carry a price tag well above $1 million USD. While these instruments deliver exceptional capabilities for specialized applications, most labs don’t need ultra-high resolution or complex fragmentation experiments for routine analysis work.
For many users, the question isn’t “what’s the most advanced MS available?” but rather:
“What’s the most cost-effective MS that will get the job done?”
The answer depends on what analysis needs to be performed. For most laboratories, the sweet spot lies in basic to middle-trim level mass spectrometers, and refurbished MS systems offer an excellent balance for performance and affordability.
LC–MS: Waters Acquity UPLC System with QDa Detector
Spectrometer Type: Single Quadrupole
Scan Modes: Full Scan, Single Ion Recording (SIR)
Mass Detection Range: 30 – 1250 m/z
Scan Rate: Up to 10,000 Da/sec
The Waters ACQUITY QDa brings mass detection to laboratories that previously relied only on UV or PDA detectors. Its compact size, ease of use, and affordability make it ideal for labs that want the confidence of MS data without investing in a complex, high-resolution platform. Unlike traditional LC–MS systems, the QDa is engineered for simplicity. It integrates with ACQUITY UPLC and HPLC platforms, giving chromatographers fast, reliable molecular weight confirmation alongside traditional chromatographic data.
The Thermo Scientific TSQ Endura triple-stage quadrupole mass spectrometer provides unparalleled value, with limits of detection (LODs) and limits of quantitation (LOQs) unrivaled in its class. It delivers this best-in-class quantitation run after run and day after day, even for complex and difficult-to-run samples. While newer TSQ models exist, the Endura remains a cost-effective and dependable choice for labs that need high sensitivity, reproducibility, and targeted quantitation at a lower investment level.
This platform shines in routine but demanding applications such as pharmaceutical QC, food safety testing, environmental monitoring, and clinical research. By focusing on robustness and throughput, it ensures labs can handle heavy sample loads without compromising accuracy. The TSQ Endura MS helps users spend more time thinking about their analyses and less time worrying about instrument setup and operation.
Scan Modes: Full Scan, Selected Ion Monitoring (SIM)
Mass Detection Range: 1.6 – 1050 m/z
Scan Rate: Up to 12,500 amu/sec
The Agilent 5975C GC/MSD has been a cornerstone in gas chromatography–mass spectrometry for years. Renowned for its reliability, robustness, and wide adoption, the 5975C is one of the most trusted GC–MS platforms for laboratories worldwide.
The Agilent 5975C inert MSD with its Triple-Axis Detector gives you innovative design features to boost your lab’s productivity and advanced analytical capabilities that enhance your results and your confidence. In addition to delivering better MS resolution and the lowest mass deviation available, the system offers superior sensitivity and spectral integrity.
Sensitivity: < 1 fg OFN on column (S/N > 100:1, MRM, EI mode)
The Bruker EVOQ GC–MS/MS offers advanced triple quadrupole selectivity and sensitivity in a streamlined, affordable design. Built with ease of use and throughput in mind, the EVOQ is ideal for complex testing scenarios such as pesticide residue monitoring, environmental analysis, and food safety compliance.
Its collision cell technology and optimized ion optics enable low detection limits and high selectivity, even in complex sample matrices. Despite its advanced capabilities, refurbished EVOQ systems are accessible for labs looking to expand into MS/MS analysis without overextending budgets.
Scan Modes: Single Quad Mode, Standard Mode, Kinetic Energy Discrimination (KED)
Mass Detection Range: 1 – 285 amu
Scan Rate: 5000 amu/sec
Sensitivity: Be > 6Mcps/mg/L; In > 100 Mcps/mg/L; U > 80 Mcps/mg/L
With growing concerns over contaminants in food, water, pharmaceuticals, and everyday consumer products, labs need solutions that deliver both accuracy and efficiency at a low cost per sample. That’s where the NexION 1000 ICP-MS comes in. The PerkinElmer NexION 1000 is an affordable entry point into elemental analysis, built for trace metals detection in environmental, food, and biological samples. Compact, user-friendly, and cost-efficient, it gives labs dependable performance without the complexity of high-end multi-mode systems.
With features like Universal Cell Technology for quick gas switching and effective interference removal, Extended Dynamic Range for simultaneous major and trace element analysis, and easy maintenance with a Triple Cone Interface and Quadrupole Ion Deflector, the NexION 1000 is built for productivity. Plus, the Syngistix software comes loaded with preset methods, making it easy for teams to get started right away.
Not every lab has the limitless resources of a large global corporation, but the need for reliable analytical tools is universal. Affordable mass spectrometry systems open the door for more labs to access high-quality analysis without overspending.
For universities, they provide practical tools for teaching and training students; for startups and R&D teams, they deliver the performance needed to generate data and prove concepts without draining budgets; and for small-scale manufacturers, they offer reliable, routine monitoring and compliance checks. In all cases, affordable MS ensures that powerful analytical capabilities are within reach, not just reserved for million-dollar labs.
If you’re exploring options for your lab, we’d be happy to discuss which MS systems provide the best fit for your applications and budget. Contact us today
Today’s pharmaceutical industry is under constant pressure to innovate, developing faster, more effective tools to discover, formulate, deliver, and monitor new drugs. In this environment, the ability to develop rapid and reliable chromatographic methods is critical for modern analytical laboratories.
In this blog, we explore the history of UPLC (Ultra Performance Liquid Chromatography) and explain its key applications with a spotlight on the Waters ACQUITY UPLC system, engineered to address these challenges with speed, precision, and proven performance.
Why UPLC Is a Game-Changer?
Liquid Chromatography (LC) has been a cornerstone of analytical chemistry for decades, with High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) dominating since the 1970s. While HPLC transformed laboratory analysis, scientists continued to seek greater speed, resolution, and sensitivity.
The breakthrough in chromatography came in the early 2000s with Ultra Performance Liquid Chromatography (UPLC), pioneered commercially by Waters Corporation through the launch of the ACQUITY UPLC® System in 2004. This technology leveraged sub-2 μm particle columns and systems engineered for pressures up to approximately 15,000 psi, overcoming long-standing HPLC bottlenecks by delivering dramatically faster analyses, sharper separations, and lower solvent consumption.
Drug development and preclinical research
UPLC supports precise quantification of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), rapid impurity profiling, and comprehensive stability studies.
For example, in metformin hydrochloride tablet analysis, UPLC reduced run times from 12 minutes with HPLC to under 4 minutes without sacrificing accuracy. In stability testing for atorvastatin, it resolved multiple degradation products in less than 5 minutes, enabling formulation scientists to optimize drug stability more efficiently. UPLC is also valuable in excipient compatibility studies, providing early insights into formulation robustness.
Quality control (QC) and batch release
Pharmaceutical QC laboratories have used UPLC to increase sample throughput in paracetamol batch testing by more than 50%, ensuring faster batch release without compromising data integrity or GMP compliance.
In dissolution testing of ibuprofen tablets, run times were reduced from 10 to 3 minutes, significantly decreasing solvent consumption and analyst time. These improvements translate directly into higher operational efficiency and cost savings while maintaining pharmacopeial compliance.
Bioanalytical studies
Bioanalysis also benefit from UPLC, particularly when coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC–MS/MS). This combination allows for highly sensitive quantification of drugs and metabolites in biological matrices, supporting pharmacokinetic (PK) and pharmacodynamic (PD) studies.
In oncology, UPLC–MS/MS has been used to monitor imatinib plasma levels at concentrations below 1 ng/mL, enabling precise dose adjustments for individual patients. Generic drug manufacturers also rely on UPLC–MS/MS for bioequivalence testing, ensuring their products match the therapeutic performance of innovator brands.
Leading the Way in UPLC: Discover the Power of Waters ACQUITY UPLC
Waters Acquity UPLC System with ACQUITY UPLC TUV Detector, PDA Detector,FLR Detector
This integrated configuration combines triple-mode detection in a single UPLC platform, offering UV absorbance (TUV), photodiode array spectral scanning (PDA), and sensitive fluorescence detection (FLR) for maximum analytical versatility. It enables simultaneous or sequential detection methods, delivering a more complete data set in fewer runs.
The H‑Class PLUS is a robust, versatile system that supports both traditional HPLC and UPLC methods. It’s equipped with binary or quaternary solvent management, enabling flexibility across a broad range of applications. It can balance method versatility with UPLC performance, offers enhanced method development with tools like Auto-Blend Plus, and is designed for seamless transition from HPLC to UPLC workflows.
This Waters Acquity Arc HPLC system is a complete, high-performance solution designed for both routine and advanced analytical applications. It combines reliable solvent delivery, flexible sample handling, and dual detection capabilities to provide high sensitivity, reproducibility, and confidence in your results.
When ultra‑precision matters, the I‑Class PLUS stands out. Designed for ultra‑low dispersion and minimal delay volumes, this binary UPLC system delivers exceptionally sharp peaks and heightened sensitivity. This model is ideal for complex or trace-level analyses.
SpectraLab offers a wide range of professionally refurbished Waters ACQUITY UPLC® systems and other leading brands’ UPLC systems to support your pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical research. Explore our available configurations and find the right solution for your lab!
In modern analytical labs, mass spectrometry has become essential. When you’re looking for an instrument that combines speed, resolution, and flexibility, Quadrupole Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry (Q-TOF) stands out as a top contender.
In this blog post, we’ll explain how the Q-TOF works, why it’s trusted in analytical labs worldwide, and highlight some Q-TOF MS models in our inventory with each offering unique strengths to support your research.
Q-TOF Is A Hybrid Mass Spectrometry Technique
Q-TOF MS combines the strengths of both quadrupole and time-of-flight (TOF) analyzers to deliver high-performance analytical capabilities. The quadrupole analyzer allows precise selection and fragmentation of ions, while the TOF analyzer offers high mass resolution and accuracy. Unlike ion traps, which focus primarily on mass resolution and accuracy, Q-TOF systems combine these qualities with a broad dynamic range, rapid acquisition speed, and in-spectrum ion detection without compromise.
The quadrupole mass analyzer separates ions based on their mass-to-charge ratio (m/z) by using electric fields to control ion motion. It consists of four metal rods, with radio frequency and direct current voltages applied to guide only ions with a specific m/z along a stable path. Ions that don’t match the selected m/z become unstable and are removed from the beam before going into the TOF analyzer. In a linear TOF analyzer, a highly accurate determination of the m/z is delivered because the flight time of the ion depends on the square root of the m/z. Some models use a reflectron TOF system to improve resolution. This reflectron corrects for differences in ion energy by adjusting their travel depth—ions with higher energy penetrate farther, allowing ions with the same m/z to reach the detector at nearly the same time. A schematic of the Q-TOF setup is below.
How Is Q-TOF Mass Spectrometry Used in the Real World?
Q-TOF as a powerful analytical tool is widely used across various scientific fields. Its versatility makes it indispensable for detailed molecular analysis, from complex biological samples to environmental and industrial testing. Here are some of the key applications where Q-TOF plays a critical role:
Applications of Q-TOF
Proteomics Research
Q-TOF enables precise identification and characterization of proteins, peptides, and post-translational modifications.
Metabolomics and Lipidomics Research
It is used to profile small molecules and discover biomarkers.
Pharmaceutical Research
It supports drug development, metabolites identification, and impurity analysis.
Environmental Testing
The technique enables sensitive detection and analysis of pollutants in air, water, and soil.
Food Safety
Q-TOF is applied to detect food contaminants and adulterants, as well as to verify the authenticity and quality of food products.
Forensics
It aids in toxicology screenings and trace evidence analysis.
Clinical Research
It supports biomarker analysis and personalized medicine.
Natural Product Research
The technology is used to discover and identify novel compounds from plants and other sources.
Background images from Unsplash
Popular Q-TOF Models Carried by SpectraLab Scientific
At SpectraLab Scientific, we stock a range of refurbished Q-TOF mass spectrometers backed by warranty and expert support. Each system is tested and validated to deliver peak performance at a fraction of the cost of new equipment.
Agilent 7200 Accurate-Mass Q-TOF GC/MS (G3851A) with Agilent 7890B and 7693A
For laboratory staff, the Q-TOF is a way to unlock deeper insights without entering into Orbitrap-level costs. At SpectraLab Scientific, we offer not only systems but also expert advice, parts, and repair services to support your long-term success.
Talk to an expert from here or browse more Q-TOF options here.
What happens when your trusted GC‑MS or HPLC reaches its end‑of‑life? Parts vanish, repairs and maintenance start costing more than a replacement, services cannot be renewed, even though your work horse is still running without a problem. SpectraLab fills that critical service gap to keep your legacy instruments running, calibrated, and compliant after manufacturers have moved on.
How SpectraLab Bridges The Gap
At SpectraLab, we bridge the support gap by pledging to keep most of the older analytical instruments running for as long as they are able – and many units can remain active for 20+ years with the proper maintenance and care.
For the Agilent 1200 Series HPLC introduced in 2006, Agilent ended guaranteed support in May 2018. Likewise, the Agilent 6890 that renowned since 1994, and other lost OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers). This discontinuation has left many labs scrambling for components and qualified service providers. Waters, Shimadzu, PerkinElmer, Thermo Scientific, and other reputable OEMs all have reliable instruments that can continue to work well despite declaring certain product lines and models obsolete (usually for business profitability reasons).
SpectraLab can deliver routine preventive maintenance, qualifications, and repairs for instrument models regardless of their status according to the OEMs. For added peace-of-mind about cost control, we can offer comprehensive service contracts so you can prevent unexpected cost-spikes and reduce instrument downtime. Our expert team can refurbish detectors, perform precision repairs, and issue audit‑ready documentation after maintenance and qualifications, keeping your older model systems calibrated, compliant, and fully operational beyond the OEMs sunset.
Why Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) End Support
As manufacturers introduce new lines of products, they will use tactics to push their clients to upgrade to new equipment. You might see them hike the price of service contracts, cut part availability, and charge a large sum for simple repairs to force you to upgrade. That’s because OEMs concentrate their engineering, production, and service efforts on their latest platforms. As a model ages and the installed base shrinks, manufacturers naturally pare back their spare‑parts inventories, wind down specialized training, and reallocate technicians to newer equipment. With fewer parts on hand and lower service volumes, lead times can stretch and maintenance fees adjust to reflect the smaller market. This creates an environment where officially sourced components grow harder to find and repairs look increasingly costly.
SpectraLab offers a more sustainable path, keeping your trusted instruments in running condition long after OEM support has tapered off. By partnering with SpectraLab, you’ll gain predictable operating costs and extended equipment lifecycles.
Imagine your GC going down mid-run: samples pile up, deadlines slip, and unplanned downtime racks up costs – sometimes as much as $20,000 per day. Yes, this is a nightmare for any laboratory. In today’s tightly budgeted and compliance-driven world, even a single hour of unplanned downtime can set projects and your bottom line back significantly.
A Service Contract is like life insurance for your lab equipment. SpectraLab Service Contracts are designed to provide support, reduce downtime, and protect your budget. We offer three tiers of coverage and we tailor frequency, scope, and pricing to fit your lab’s workflow and budget. Backed by our experienced Specialists and proven processes, you’ll enjoy maximum uptime, consistent performance, and predictable costs.
Why Service Contracts Matter for Your Lab Equipment and Research?
1. Ensuring Instrument Uptime and Reliability
By scheduling regular inspections, calibrations, and preventive tune-ups, service contracts stop small issues from becoming big failures. When unexpected problems do arise, technical experts are on call to diagnose and repair quickly. Therefore, your experiments stay on schedule and your data integrity remains intact.
2. Cost Management and Budget Predictability
Fixed annual fees replace surprise repair invoices, giving you a clear picture of maintenance expenses year-round. With most labor and parts covered, you avoid out-of-pocket emergency costs, and multi-year agreements often come with tiered discounts that amplify your savings over time.
3. Protecting Investments and Extending Equipment Lifespan
Proactive maintenance not only prevents breakdowns but also slows wear-and-tear on critical components. By keeping your systems in peak condition, you maximize the usable life of high-value instruments and delay costly capital replacements.
4. Comprehensive Coverage and Peace of Mind
Customizable service tiers let you choose the scope that matches your lab’s needs, whether it’s full on-site support or remote troubleshooting only. Outsourcing maintenance logistics to experts frees your team to focus on core research activities, confident that every instrument is backed by professional care.
What is inside a SpectraLab’s Service Contract?
When you choose SpectraLab, you gain a partner with over 20 years of dedicated expertise in professional servicing and field support. Our Service Contracts are engineered to fit your lab’s unique workflow, combining scheduled preventive maintenance, rapid-response emergency assistance, and full compliance documentation. With every detail tailored to your needs, you will enjoy uninterrupted performance, predictable costs, and the confidence to focus on the science that matters.
Learn More Here
Click the product images to learn more service contract details
Ready to safeguard your lab’s productivity and compliance?
Contact SpectraLab today to design a Service Contract that keeps your instruments and your research running at peak performance.
Today, we’re proud to celebrate a landmark moment: SpectraLab’s 23rd anniversary! For more than two decades, we have stood at the forefront of the refurbished analytical-instruments industry, delivering precise, reliable solutions that empower scientists and engineers around the world. We owe our success to the unwavering support of our customers, partners, and friends. Thank you for believing in us!
We’d Never Stop Growing,
Never Stop Believing!
Growing Strong, Expanding Further
It all began in 2002, when a small group of researchers and engineers shared one bold goal: make cutting-edge analytical instruments both accessible and affordable to any size labs. Year after year, we’ve built on our foundation of quality and service. Most recently, we’ve expanded into the U.S. market—bringing our refurbished instruments closer to American laboratories and field teams. Wherever analytical challenges arise, SpectraLab is committed to providing dependable, cost-effective equipment that helps organizations do more with less.
Our Promise for Tomorrow
Looking ahead, we remain dedicated to meeting the evolving needs of analytical services. We’ll continue refining our refurbishment processes, enhancing software features, and expanding our inventory. So you can always find the right tool for your toughest applications.
Gratitude to Our Team
Last but never least, we want to extend our deepest thanks to the SpectraLab team. Your curiosity, determination, and bold spirit have driven every innovation and made every success possible. Here’s to 23 years of breakthroughs and to many more milestones ahead!
For many laboratories, the decision to invest in analytical instruments is a significant one, often balancing the need for cutting-edge technology with budget realities. Refurbished equipment presents an attractive cost-saving alternative that is also environmentally friendly. Pre-owned equipment also comes with a set of questions and concerns for potential buyers.
At SpectraLab Scientific Inc (SpectraLab), we understand these apprehensions deeply. That is why we are not just selling “used” instruments; we provide professionally refurbished analytical instruments, backed by a SpectraLab Certification process designed to address most of the common market doubts head-on. In this article, we take a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) approach to explain why professional refurbishment truly matters, outline our key processes, and demonstrate how SpectraLab delivers lab-ready instruments you can be confident using.
Transparency is Paramount
This is the most fundamental concern. Without a clear usage history, buying pre-owned equipment can feel like a gamble. Everyone knows someone who has been victim to scammers and fraudsters selling fake goods or broken equipment.
Step 1 –
Start with Order Configuration
At SpectraLab, transparency begins the moment an instrument enters our system. We start by ensuring you get the absolute best unit for your needs. Our Technical Specialists carefully review your order, then select the optimal unit from our extensive inventory for customization. This personalized approach means your instrument’s journey is unique and carefully considered from the outset.
Step 2 –
Once selected, every instrument undergoes an intensive Condition Assessment.
This is not a superficial glance; it is a deep exploration into the instrument’s core workings with expert testing. Our specialists perform a comprehensive inspection, meticulously checking every detail, including and not limited to: wiring, circuit boards, connections, plumbing, optics, pumps, and motors for any signs of wear or issues. We then conduct thorough functionality tests to evaluate mechanical and performance status. This systematic approach allows us to uncover hidden defects and assess internal wear-and-tear, ensuring we know the instrument’s true condition before any work begins.
Refurbished an Instrument to Its Highest Possible Standard
The term “refurbished” can be a wild card in the market, leading to inconsistent quality and unpredictable performance. Labs need assurance that “refurbished” means reliable, high-performing equipment every time.
Step 3 –
Passing to Multi-stage Refurbishment
For SpectraLab, “refurbished” means a commitment to restoring an instrument to the best condition possible given the natural age of the instrument. Our multi-stage Refurbishment process is where the skills of our specialists are demonstrated:
1. Line and pump flushing: Thorough cleaning to remove any residues from previous use.
2. Reassembly of critical components: Meticulous reconstruction of the instrument’s critical elements.
3. Repair or replacement of non-consumable components: Any non-consumable parts showing wear or damage are expertly repaired or replaced as needed.
4. Replacement of consumable components: Consumable parts showing wear and tear from routine usage are replaced as appropriate.
5. Deep cleaning: Internal and external deep cleaning to restore the instrument’s appearance and hygiene.
6. And more as needed: Our technicians apply their extensive expertise to address any specific requirements of each unique instrument.
Quality Assurance Ensures Your Equipment is in Good Operation
Step 4 –
Enters Our Stringent Quality Assurance Phase
After the refurbishment work, every instrument then enters our stringent Quality Assurance phase. This involves comprehensive testing specific to the instrument type, ensuring it meets, and often exceeds, the operating specifications naturally expected based on the age of the instrument. Only equipment that passes SpectraLab’s rigorous Certification Procedure receives a Certificate of Functionality and is backed by a minimum 90-day warranty. This certificate is proof that your instrument was tested to be in excellent operating condition before it is packaged for shipment from our facility to yours.
Finally, ensuring your instrument arrives safely and ready for operation
Step 5 –
Professional Packaging & Shipping
We undertake Professional Packaging & Shipping. The exterior of the instrument is professionally cleaned, removing any stickers or markings from past ownership, then securely packaged using industry-standard materials to ensure safe delivery to your facilities. Where the equipment is known to be particularly sensitive (like detectors and analytical balances) and requires upright transport, it will be crated or strapped to a skid.
Step 6 –
Installation and Familiarization Training
SpectraLab offers on-site installation, on-site qualification, and remote installation services to support customers with setup and initial operation. Additionally, we can provide fundamental training to ensure users can utilize their equipment properly. Advanced training courses are available for instrument maintenance and operation.
SpectraLab’s Comprehensive Warranty, Service Contracts, and Optional Services for Worry-Free Operation
Continuous maintenance of an instrument is critical. Reliable ongoing support is non-negotiable for many labs to avoid costly disruptions.
At SpectraLab, our commitment to excellence extends far beyond the initial sale. We’re dedicated to providing not just a cost-effective instrument, but a reliable, high-performing solution supported every step of the way. When you choose SpectraLab, you’re choosing a partner invested in your lab’s success.
We stand firmly behind the quality of our refurbishment. Every piece of equipment passing the SpectraLab certification process is backed by a minimum 90-day warranty. This isn’t just a promise. It’s our guarantee of reliability, giving you significant peace of mind and protecting your investment from day one.
Beyond the initial warranty, SpectraLab is committed to helping your instrument operate efficiently for years to come. We offer flexible support options for all makes and models, including for instruments no longer supported by the manufacturer.
Ready to enhance your lab’s capabilities with a certified refurbished instrument you can trust? Contact us anytime to speak with an expert and discover the SpectraLab difference!
With so many mass spectrometry (MS) systems on the market, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, especially if you’re new to the field. From single quadrupole systems to triple quadrupole and hybrid analyzers, selecting the right instrument can feel like navigating a maze of acronyms and specifications.
But no worries! In this blog post, we’ll simplify your decision-making process by focusing on the Orbitrap Systems produced by Thermo Fisher Scientific. We’ll explain how Orbitrap works, why it’s trusted in analytical labs worldwide, and introduce three powerful Orbitrap models recently added to our inventory—each offering unique strengths to support your research.
What Is an Orbitrap Mass Spectrometer?
Orbitrap is a high-resolution mass spectrometry platform known for delivering sub-ppm mass accuracy, exceptional sensitivity, and broad dynamic range. Unlike traditional quadrupole or time-of-flight systems, the Orbitrap analyzer measures ions based on the frequency of their oscillations in an electrostatic field, offering unmatched precision. Orbitrap instruments are commonly integrated with liquid chromatography (LC) systems to enhance compound separation and support high-throughput, high-confidence workflows.
How Does the Orbitrap Analyzer Work?
When ions enter the Orbitrap mass analyzer, they are “electrodynamic squeezing” and begin oscillating around a central spindle-like electrode. Each ion’s oscillation frequency is proportional to its mass-to-charge (m/z) ratio. These oscillations generate an image current that is then transformed into mass spectra using a Fourier Transform algorithm.
Why is Orbitrap MS a benefit to your lab?
While Orbitrap technology is considered cutting-edge today, its theoretical origins date as far back as 1923, as outlined in this Analytical Chemistry article. Since then, the Orbitrap MS has continuously evolved and advanced to meet the growing demands of modern laboratory research. It remains a popular choice in the industry, especially in proteomics and structural biology, pharmaceutical quality control, food and environmental safety testing, and clinical analysis.
Here’s why labs around the world rely on Orbitrap technology:
1. Exceptional Mass Accuracy and Resolution
Orbitrap systems consistently deliver sub-ppm mass accuracy and resolving power up to 500,000 FWHM at m/z 200—far exceeding the capabilities of many time-of-flight or quadrupole instruments. This enables:
Confident identification of unknowns in complex mixtures
Clear separation of isobaric compounds
High-fidelity full-scan and MS/MS analysis
For applications such as metabolomics, proteomics, and impurity profiling, this level of precision is essential.
2. Versatile Qualitative and Quantitative Performance
Orbitrap MS platforms support both targeted quantification and untargeted discovery in a single run, making them ideal for multi-purpose workflows. They are equipped to perform:
Full-scan MS with ultra-high resolution
MS/MS fragmentation (HCD, CID, ETD, etc.) for structural analysis
Parallel reaction monitoring (PRM) for high-precision quantitation
This dual capability minimizes sample use, reduces run times, and improves overall productivity.
3. Retrospective Data Analysis
A unique advantage of full-scan HRAM data is the ability to reprocess previously acquired data to investigate new targets—without re-injecting the sample.
Spend wisely with professional support on Refurbished Orbitrap MS
Purchasing a refurbished Orbitrap MS can save you 30% to 70% compared to new systems. At SpectraLab Scientific, each system is professionally refurbished, tested, and validated—backed by expert installation and service support.
We’re excited to introduce three Orbitrap mass spectrometry systems recently added to our inventory. Each model offers distinct advantages based on your lab’s requirements.
Thermo Orbitrap Fusion Lumos Tribrid MS in original crate
This system delivers unmatched performance for complex applications such as low-level post-translational modification (PTM) analysis, isobaric tag quantitation, intact protein characterization, and MSⁿ of small molecules. Featuring advanced ion optics, high-efficiency fragmentation (including ETD HD and optional UVPD), and ultra-high resolution up to 1,000,000 FWHM, it sets a new standard in structural elucidation and quantitative accuracy. Innovations like the Advanced Peak Determination (APD) algorithm ensure smarter, more sensitive data acquisition.
Thermo Orbitrap Fusion Tribrid MS with ETD – SN: FSN1018X
Enhance protein and PTM analysis with Thermo Scientific’s Electron Transfer Dissociation (ETD) option. Unlike CID, ETD preserves labile modifications while fragmenting the peptide backbone, simplifying PTM site identification. It generates complementary c- and z-type ions, boosting sequence coverage and protein identification.
This system is a Thermo Scientific quadrupole-Orbitrap mass spectrometer that combines proven hardware with next-generation software for fast, reliable performance. Its intuitive interface and ready-to-use acquisition methods make it ideal for walk-up use across applications like food safety, toxicology, environmental testing, metabolomics, and proteomics. Predefined, validated methods ensure consistent results and a quick start for researchers at any level.
Choosing an Orbitrap MS depends on your analytical goals, sample complexity, throughput needs, and budget. Whatever systems or brands you’re looking for, SpectraLab is here to help.
At SpectraLab Scientific, our team offers personalized guidance to help you find the best fit, along with warranty coverage, fast turnaround, full service package, and expert support.
We’re thrilled to announce that our U.S. brand has opened its doors. Spectralab Scientific USA now ships directly from our new location in Buffalo, New York!
This means no more import tariffs and duties for our American customers. Whether you’re ordering LCs, GCs,Mass Specs or spare parts, you’ll now enjoy transparent pricing without the burden of international duties.
What This Means for You, Right Now:
✅ No import tariffs – Say goodbye to surprise border fees. ✅ Local shipping – Faster, cheaper delivery from within the U.S. ✅ Service made easy – Our U.S.-based team is ready to support your lab.
Whether you’re buying refurbished analytical instruments or scheduling maintenance and repair services, it’s now easier and more cost-effective than ever. We’re proud to make high-quality lab equipment more accessible to scientists and researchers across the United States.
Spectralab Scientific USA Inc. Address: 315 Creekside Dr Buffalo, NY 14228
🚀 We’re thrilled to announce that SpectraLab Scientific Inc. will be exhibiting at Pittcon 2025, one of the world’s largest conferences for the latest advances in analytical research and scientific instrumentation!
We’ll be in Boston from March 3th to 5th, showcasing our Services and extensive range of HPLC, GC, ICP, and Mass Spec. Whether you are exploring for more affordable analytical instruments, seeking solutions for your lab, or just looking to network, we’ve got you covered!
What to Expect This Year?
At this year’s Pittcon, you’ll have the opportunity to explore a wide range of exciting and cutting-edge topics, including:
🌍 Environment & Energy 🔬 Instrumentation & Nanoscience 🧬 Bioanalytical & Life Sciences 🌱 Cannabis & Psychedelics 💊 Pharmaceuticals & Biologics …and much more!
But that’s not all!
You’ll also gain access to industry-leading technologies and invaluable opportunities to network with experts, innovators, and fellow professionals.
🎁 And, of course, SpectraLab Scientific is here to help! Not only will we be offering free, one-stop lab solution consultations, but we also have exciting prizes and giveaways awaiting you!
Come join us at Booth 1957 – we can’t wait to connect with you there!
At Spectralab Scientific Inc, we are always looking for ways to better serve our customers. We are taking a bold step forward: we’re opening a service hub in New York!
This new location will allow us to ensure that our U.S. customers can access improved HPLC, GC, and Mass Spectrometry services at competitive prices. We understand the importance of affordability, reliability and proximity in the scientific community, and we want to make sure that researchers and laboratories don’t face down time.
What This Means for YouIn the Future
✅ Faster shipping – Our U.S. customers will experience shorter lead times. ✅ Improved service & support – Access parts and servicing with greater ease. ✅ Greater Service Plan Coverage– Field service engineers can now reach more areas in the US
Our team is working hard to finalize everything, and we expect the New York hub to open in April 2025. This is a huge milestone for us as we establish our first U.S. location, and we couldn’t be more excited!
Stay tuned for more updates as we get closer to the launch. If you have any questions or want to know how this expansion will benefit your lab, feel free to reach out to us!
We service and repair most laboratory chromatography and spectroscopy equipment and accessories, whether or not you purchased the equipment from us. We can now better provide services such as protection plans, qualifications, maintenance at a low cost.
Elevate Your Lab with a High-Performance LC-MS System
At SpectraLabSci, we understand the importance of cutting-edge technology in your research and analysis endeavors. That’s why we’re thrilled to introduce you to our latest offering: the Refurbished Sciex TripleTOF 6600 LC-MS System with Shimadzu UFLC Front-End.
🌟 Why Choose the Sciex TripleTOF 6600 LC-MS System? 🌟
🔬 Superior Performance: The TripleTOF 6600 delivers exceptional sensitivity, speed, and resolution for your mass spectrometry applications, enabling you to make precise and reliable measurements.
💼 Cost-Effective Solution: Our refurbished system offers you a budget-friendly alternative to brand new equipment without compromising on quality or performance.
🌐 Broad Application Range: From proteomics and metabolomics to small molecule analysis, the TripleTOF 6600 handles a wide range of applications, ensuring versatility in your lab.
⚙️ Fully Tested and Certified: Rest assured that every refurbished unit at SpectraLabSci undergoes rigorous testing and certification to meet or exceed original manufacturer specifications.
🛠️ Expert Technical Support: Our team of experienced technicians is ready to provide comprehensive support, ensuring your system operates at peak performance.
🌎 Eco-Friendly Choice: By choosing refurbished equipment, you’re contributing to sustainability by extending the lifecycle of high-quality instruments.
🎉 Special Offer: Act Now and Save! 🎉
For a limited time, when you purchase the Refurbished Sciex TripleTOF 6600 LC-MS System with Shimadzu UFLC Front-End, you’ll enjoy exclusive savings. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to enhance your lab capabilities while staying within your budget.
Upgrade your lab’s analytical capabilities and unlock new possibilities with the Refurbished Sciex TripleTOF 6600 LC-MS System today! Click here for more info.
Elevate Your Research with Unrivaled Sensitivity and Precision!
Are you ready to take your research to the next level? Look no further than the refurbished SCIEX QTRAP 6500 system – a cutting-edge fusion of triple quadrupole and linear ion trap capabilities, powered by the revolutionary multi-component IonDrive technology. This is not just any refurbished instrument; it’s your gateway to the world’s most sensitive and selective triple quadrupole experience.
Imagine having up to 10 times greater sensitivity and a remarkable 20-fold increase in detector dynamic range. With the QTRAP 6500, you’ll uncover insights in your samples that were once hidden, propelling your research forward like never before. Don’t compromise on mass range either – experience the freedom of a 2000 m/z upper mass limit, ensuring no detail goes unnoticed.
But that’s not all – your research efficiency has been taken into consideration. The QTRAP 6500 offers polarity switching speeds of just 20 milliseconds, enabling increased throughput without sacrificing accuracy. And for those seeking top-notch data quality improvements, our optional SelexION differential ion mobility technology is at your fingertips, providing enhancements that redefine the boundaries of excellence.
Features that Speak for Themselves:
🔬 Up to five-fold Signal-to-Noise and LOQ improvement across a wide range of compounds and flow rates, giving you the confidence to explore diverse samples.
🌌 Impressive Mass Range: Covering triple quadrupole from 5 – 2,000 Da and linear ion trap from 50 – 2,000 Da, ensuring comprehensive coverage of your analytes.
📈 Twenty-fold increase in detector dynamic range, capturing subtle nuances in your data for a richer understanding.
🚀 Uncompromising Mass Range: Reach for the stars with a 2000 m/z upper mass limit, letting you investigate even the most challenging molecules.
⏩ Accelerated Throughput: Enjoy rapid polarity switching speeds of 20 msec, boosting your productivity without compromising data quality.
💡 Seamlessly Compatible: Integration with SelexION Differential Ion Mobility Technology, a true game-changer in enhancing data quality.
Invest in the refurbished AB SCIEX Triple Quad 6500 LC/MS/MS System and witness unparalleled sensitivity, unmatched focus, and unprecedented data quality. Your research deserves the best, and the QTRAP 6500 is here to deliver results that will leave a lasting impact. Elevate your research journey today! Click here for more info.
At SpectraLab Scientific, we are always committed to providing you with the highest quality analytical instruments and the best customer experience. We understand the importance of peace of mind when it comes to your scientific investments, which is why we are thrilled to introduce an exciting limited-time offer for all our valued customers.
For the entire month of October 2023, when you purchase any refurbished instrument from our company, we are doubling the standard warranty period. That’s right, you’ll receive an additional 3 months of warranty on top of our standard coverage, giving you a total of 6 months of protection!
Here’s why this offer is music to your ears:
Quality Assurance: Our refurbished instruments undergo rigorous testing and meticulous refurbishment by our expert technicians to ensure they meet the highest standards of performance and reliability.
Extended Peace of Mind: With a total of 6 months of warranty coverage, you can enjoy your instrument without worries. Any unexpected issues will be taken care of promptly and at no extra cost.
Savings: You not only get a premium-quality instrument but also added value with this extended warranty offer.
Customer Satisfaction: Our commitment to your satisfaction doesn’t end with the purchase. We’re here to support you throughout your musical journey.
Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to own top-notch refurbished analytical equipment with an extended warranty. Whether you’re a veteran professional or just starting up your laboratory, this offer is designed to benefit everyone.
Our knowledgeable staff is available to assist you by email or over the phone in finding the perfect equipment for your needs.
This limited-time offer is valid only throughout October 2023, so act now to take advantage of this incredible deal. If you have any questions or need assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact our friendly customer support team directly.
Thank you for considering SpectraLab Scientific as your one-stop shop for refurbished analytical instruments. We strive to offer peace of mind, and not simply a piece of equipment!
SpectraLab Scientific Inc. proudly marks its 20th anniversary this year, a significant milestone that demonstrates the company’s unwavering commitment to providing high-quality refurbished analytical equipment and exceptional customer service. Over the past two decades, SpectraLab has built a solid reputation as a trusted partner for laboratories, research institutions, and industry in need of reliable and cost-effective chromatography and mass spec solutions.
As we celebrate our achievements and look ahead to the future, we take this opportunity to reflect on the journey and express our gratitude to our wonderful customers and employees to whom our success would not be possible without.
Since its inception, SpectraLab Scientific Inc. has been driven by the vision of becoming a leading provider of refurbished analytical instruments in North America. With a dedicated team, we have grown exponentially, expanding our products and services worldwide. From HPLC and GC systems to mass spectrometers, we have consistently delivered quality equipment from all the renowned manufacturers.
At the heart of SpectraLab’s success lies our unwavering dedication to customer satisfaction. We understand the importance of having reliable, quality, and cost efficient analytical instruments in today’s fast-paced and competitive environment. That’s why we go above and beyond to provide comprehensive services, including instrument installation, maintenance, repair, sops, and training. Our knowledgeable staff is always ready to offer personalized assistance and technical expertise, ensuring that our customers can can receive the best support and minimize downtime.
On this special occasion, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to our customers, partners, and staff for their support and trust throughout the years. Your loyalty and confidence in SpectraLab have been the driving force behind our success, and we look forward to serving you with the same dedication and excellence in the years to come.
The TripleTOF 5600+ QTOF LC-MS/MS System combines the best-in-class front end of SCIEX Triple Quad technology with the Accelerator TOF Analyzer, to deliver nominal mass and accurate mass benefits in a single platform. This proven workhorse uniquely integrates comprehensive, qualitative exploration, rapid profiling, and high-resolution quantitation workflows, providing high performance and versatility for pharmaceutical development, omics research and any challenging unknown compound analysis.
Includes Agilent 1200 front-end LC system, nitrogen generator, and suitable software data PC.
July of 2020 marks SpectraLab’s 18th fiscal year doing business. Since our inception in 2003, SpectraLab has been providing solutions for analytical chemistry laboratories.
Without the support of our excellent team we would never have gotten as big as we are. Every member plays a very important role in the development of our company. It their enthusiasm, support and dedication that have brought us to this height. SpectraLab Scientific shall ever remain indebted to the contributions of its employees.
We also wish to say thank you to our customers for inspiring us all these years. Your satisfaction is what motivates us to continually thrive in this market. You have been an essential part of our organisation’s journey and success. We are eternally grateful for the dedication and passion you have shown. Thank you for being with us.
We plan to keep our business and relation growing with you and continue to provide you nothing less than the best. With your support, we wish to explore new heights this year.
We are excited to announce that we’re adding a new location in Toronto. We’ve spent years in our Markham facility about 5 kilometres away from our new location — our office and warehouse has served us well, and we’ll still be conducting a majority of work here, but we couldn’t be more excited about our new space.
As of this month, May 2020, we’ve acquired a new 25,000-square foot laboratory at:
30 Tempo Ave. Toronto, ON M2H 2N8 Canada
This location is SpectraLab Scientific’s new Laboratory Services Division. You may find this address added to our website and in some of our communications. We’re still settling into the new space, and it’ll be a little while until we’re ready to invite customers out to really break the new building in.
We’re excited about starting up the Laboratory Services Division; it’s been in the works for several years. It’s another part of how our business will grow and prosper, proudly serving the analytical and diagnostic needs of the agriculture, food, environment and animal health industries with excellence and expertise.
The best part of developing, expanding, and making announcements like this is knowing it’s all only possible because of your trust in us to provide refurbished analytical instruments. That’s always humbling, but an expansion like this puts the remarkable events of our company’s history into especially sharp relief. We’re grateful for your continued trust and business.
In this time of uncertainty, it is important for you to know that Spectralab Scientific is still in full operation. We have implemented measures to keep our facility sanitary and our customers safe. Given that onsite equipment installation and training presents a public health risk, customers may schedule for services at a later date. We are also now offering remote installation and training services, where our experienced technicians guide you through the entire process. We are also accepting 25% prepayment on orders, so you may keep instruments on hold. We will be able to prepare them for when your lab is back in full operation.
If you are making a visit to our office for equipment pickup or instrument inspection, we ask that you:
Do not enter if you recently have had shortness of breath or flu like symptoms
Apply our hand sanitizer when you come in
Put on a face mask if you are visiting the warehouse (we will provide one if you did not carry any)
We are always keeping up to date with the latest news and developments, so our business will never fall behind the in our efforts and precautions. We wish everyone well in these difficult times. Thank you for your continued patronage.
The Coronavirus outbreak is one of the greatest viral disasters of our time. It’s effects can be seen throughout the world, shaking all kinds of livelihoods. At Spectralab Scientific Inc., we believe it is our duty as global citizens to give what we can. The world is the home and we are responsible to protect and preserve it. Our company is contributing a donation of medical and antiviral supplies as a relief effort to aid the fight against the virus in China. The supplies will be sent to the medical professionals on the front lines in Wuhan. The brave doctors and nurses are working day and night in life and death situations. They are heroes of our times, and we wish them the best in the combat against a global disaster.
This event is a free-to-attend mass spectrometry users’ meeting held in Etobicoke. This symposium is a meeting for mass spectrometry communities across Canada, with topics including aproteomics, metabolommics, environmental, food, forensic, instruments, and cannabis. Come visit us at our booth!
Date: October 21st, 2019
Location: Crowne Plaza Toronto Airport, Etobicoke, ON
Over the years, November has typically been a slow month. However, in 2018 SpectraLab has had a new record for this month. We sold one ICP/MS systems to customers the United States, as well as four LC/MS or LC/MS/MS systems. Customers from California, Kentucky, New Jersey, and Florida are now proud owners of SpectraLab certified refurbished Mass Spectrometer systems. Here in Canada, we we sold off one LC/MS system, and another LC/MS/MS system in Asia. Sales have been impressive, so SpectraLab is declaring November the Month of Mass Spectrometers. Not to mention the various HPLC and GC/MS units, and other analytical instruments.
We would like to thank all of our customers around the world for supporting our business and allowing us to continue providing excellent products and service.
SpectraLab Scientific is now offering instrument leasing to own services to government agencies and universities. It’s a convenient purchasing alternative that provides increased flexibility and possible tax benefits. The more notable advantages that you can take advantage of include:
Immediate use of the equipment
Fixed payments
Conservation of capital budget and preservation of credit
Flexibility
Refreshed technology
Tax and accounting benefits
Positive cash flow
Ease of growth
We can be very accomodating in creating a finance program that meets your financial needs.
Learn more about SpectraLab’s full suite of services and our leasing-to-buy option by contacting us at [email protected] or 1-866-777-3688.
