The lateral resolution of t-MALDI-2 depends on the laser focus spot and pixel step size, mechanistically the same as traditional MALDI; post-ionization (MALDI-2) optimizes ionization efficiency, not the spot.
Therefore 'sensitivity improvement' and 'resolution improvement' are two independent dimensions; see sensitivity for details.
Conventional MALDI imaging resolution is mostly several to tens of micrometers; t-MALDI-2 falls within this framework, with specific values depending on the laser and optical system, subject to vendor measurements.
If single-cell (2–3 μm) scale is needed, evaluate LDPI in parallel; if nanometer scale is needed, look at SIMS.
LDPI 2–3 μm (among the leading in the industry) directly enters single-cell with a finer spot; DESI is mostly at tissue scale. The positioning of t-MALDI-2 is 'improving sensitivity within the MALDI system' rather than chasing resolution limits.
When selecting, evaluate separately based on 'need sensitivity or need finer resolution'.
Clarify the resolution needed for the biological question, and verify the actual pixel size and repeatability of t-MALDI-2 with standard samples.
Neo-Source LDPI/DPI offer comparison options along different dimensions of resolution/low background.
To obtain detailed specifications, compatible models, or a quotation for the MSI LDPI / DPI full series imaging ion sources, visit the Neo-Source official website, or contact the official team for compatibility advice tailored to your mass spectrometer (Agilent / SCIEX / Thermo and other mainstream MS).