Create a new GC/MS Method

For OpenLAB supported GC and MSD instruments, the parameters for both are included in a single method.

1. Launch your instrument from the Control Panel or Desktop Icon.

2. Click Method to access the method parameters. The components configured with this instrument are listed in the navigation pane under Instrument Setup.

3. Open an Acquisition method, a similar GCMS analytical method to use as a starting point, or click Create a new Acquisition method to reset the method parameters to default conditions and begin from there.

4. Save the current Acquisition as a new file.
   
   

5. Edit the GC method parameters as needed. See the appropriate GC help for more information.

   In the GC method editor, be sure to choose the MSD detector signal in Signals > Signal Source and select to Save it.

6. If you are not using a supported GC, you can select Run time and enter a time.

7. In the Tune File area, click and select a tune file.
   The values stored in the tune file for the Tune type, Tune EM volts, are displayed in the Tune File area.

8. Enter a time into Solvent delay after which data collection begins. This time value is normally sufficient to allow elution of the solvent peak to be completed.

9. Select an Electron multiplier (EM) mode (Gain factor, Delta EM volts, or EM volts) from the menu.

10. The Gain factor is the default and also the recommended EM setting.
    Delta EM volts is not recommended for most applications.

11. If the Electron multiplier mode is Gain factor, enter the Gain factor. If the EM Setting is Delta EM volts, enter the relative voltage. If the EM mode is EM volts, enter the absolute voltage.

12. This EM mode and value is fixed for all Scan time segments, but its value can be overridden by different values specified in timed events.

13. Select an Acquisition type for the method then click on the procedure below for the acquisition type selected.

    • Scan - Specify the scan time segments

    • SIM - Specify SIM Time Segments and their ions

    • SIM and Scan - Specify both Scan and SIM Time Segments together

14. (optional) Add Timed Events to this method.

15. (optional) Specify MS Chromatograms for Online Signals plots.

16. Save the method. You also have the option to select General Properties and enter a method Description.

17. With the GC selected in Instrument Setup, edit the GC Acquisition parameters for this method. See How To help for this GC.

18. Savethe method. Both the GC and MS parameters, along with the method description, are saved with the method.