PlasmaQuant MS product family
Method development
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7
Method development
Before running any samples, an analytical protocol, which will be referred to in this
documentation as a "Method", must be developed. This method defines the software
and hardware parameters used during data acquisition for the elements/isotopes of
interest in the samples to be measured. A brief summary of method development is
presented here. For more complete details, refer to the software help.
Method development involves the following topics:
Create new worksheet
Select elements and isotopes
Calculate isotope ratios
Optimize the method settings
Set up calibration standards
Enter scan settings
Configure sampling settings
Configure QC tests
Enter notes and save method parameters
After method development a sequence must be developed. It contains information on
your sample parameters (labels, weights/volumes, etc.). Access the sequence page by
selecting the
SEQUENCE
tab from the main page of the worksheet. To run an analysis
click the [
RUN
] button on the toolbar of the main page. For further information on
developing a sequence and running an analysis see the software help.
7.1
Create new worksheet
The ASpect MS software uses a single file structure for all data files. Each electronic file
(referred to hereafter as a “worksheet”) contains all method settings, sequence and
sample names, data, and calibrations, all stored together. The files are indicated with
the *.msws file extension in the Microsoft Windows file system.
1.
Click on N
EW
in the F
ILE
menu or click on [W
ORKSHEET
]
[N
EW
] in the Quick Start
menu or click on the corresponding icon in the icon bar.
2.
Enter a file name for the new worksheet.