2. Coupling architectures

Combining the chromatographic part with the mass spectrometer poses a set of specific problems, not encountered when each is used independently. The ideal solution is to find a compromise that allows each component to operate under optimum conditions.

Traditionally, interface design and production have involved the addition of a third element, which can be complex, sometimes costing much more than the simple addition of the two parts (sometimes by considerable amounts).

This notion of a distinct interface is much more blurred...