Patent ID: 7217921
Filing Date: 2007-05-15
Classification: G01N,H01J

Abstract:
1. An apparatus for separating ions, comprising: a FAIMS analyzer comprising a first electrode and a second electrode that is spaced apart from the first electrode, a space between the first electrode and the second electrode defining an analyzer region; an ion inlet orifice defined within a portion of the first electrode, for providing fluid communication between the analyzer region and a region that is external to the analyzer region; and, a laser-based ionization source comprising a laser light source and a multiple sample holder, the multiple sample holder disposed within the region that is external to the analyzer region for supporting each of a plurality of discrete sample portions, during different non-overlapping periods of time, in an aligned relationship with the ion inlet orifice, wherein the laser light source is synchronized to irradiate, with light of a predetermined wavelength, each of the plurality of discrete sample portions when in the aligned relationship with the ion inlet orifice.