TI 960/CEC-620 automated mass spectrometer

There was a need for a mass spectrometer for routine analysis that: (1) covered the mass range of 2 to 44; (2) did not require a physicist to operate; (3) was capable of a precision of 1 percent or better at the 3-sigma statistical level; and (4) made results available within 1 hr or less after completion of the sample run. Most spectrometers require frequent adjustments to source controls to maintain their resolution (the ability to resolve two mass peaks very close to each other) and sensitivity. This necessitates running a ''standard-sample-standard'' sequence to continually correct for sensitivity and resolution changes. It was necessary to resolve two mass peaks that require a 530 resolution (base line separation). To increase resolution you must narrow the ion source and collector slits which reduce sensitivity as fewer ions can get through. The sensitivity must be sufficient to detect elements in the 100 ppM range. The spectrometer selected was a Consolidated Electrodynamic Corp. model 21 to 620 cycloid unit. All the original electronics were discarded. The vacuum housing and cycloid tube were retained. A new vacuum system and sample inlet system were built. The resulting automated cycloid mass spectrometer is described