The new system is designed to improve laboratory efficiency by identifying potential instrument problems before they disrupt testing.
Agilent Technologies has introduced the 5987A single quadrupole mass selective detector (MSD) equipped with GC Assist and MassHunter 14 software. Designed to integrate with the company’s 8890B or 8860B gas chromatographs, the system aims to help analytical and clinical laboratories improve data quality, minimize unplanned downtime, and operate more efficiently.
Expanded Dynamic Range and Automated Method Development
The 5987A MSD delivers up to a 25% increase in scan rate while preserving analytical data quality, alongside an order-of-magnitude improvement in dynamic range.
Through integration with MassHunter 14 software, the detector supports two new operational modes: Dynamic SIM (dSIM), which maximizes dwell time to enhance sensitivity and chromatographic peak shape, and simultaneous dSIM/Scan, which collects low-level SIM data alongside library-searchable full-scan results within a single analytical run.
The software package also includes Optimizer, an automated method-development capability that streamlines the creation, updating, and maintenance of SIM methods as laboratories manage growing compound databases.
“Laboratories need analytical systems that help them generate high-quality data while managing growing workloads and limited resources,” says Warren Potts, vice president and general manager of the gas phase division at Agilent, in a release. “The 5987A combines advanced analytical performance with built-in system intelligence, helping scientists identify potential issues earlier, simplify routine maintenance and remain focused on their analytical work.”
Automated Diagnostics and Lower Energy Consumption
To prevent unscheduled instrument downtime, GC Assist provides integrated monitoring, troubleshooting, and maintenance guidance across the GC/MS workflow. The system can track and record more than 60 system parameters, notify laboratory staff when routine maintenance is due, flag results that fall outside predefined quality control limits, and supply step-by-step servicing instructions accompanied by onboard videos
Scientists can also check instrument status and conduct system troubleshooting remotely within a secure laboratory network.
Across the full configuration, GC Assist monitors analytical performance, gas and electrical power usage, and early indicators of carrier gas leaks. By identifying potential instrument issues before they compromise run results, the system helps laboratories curtail reruns caused by hardware faults or unmet quality control criteria.
In addition to workflow intelligence, the 5987A cuts energy consumption by up to 40% compared with earlier Agilent GC/MSD systems, assisting laboratories in meeting operational sustainability goals.
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