What components does a retrofit kit usually include?

It usually includes the imaging ion source, a positioning and scanning stage, a host interface module and image reconstruction software; kit-based delivery makes installation and maintenance easier.

How to choose between a kit and a full imaging system?

A kit reuses the host investment, costs less and preserves the original capability; a full system has more mature dedicated optimization but a higher cost. Kits suit incremental expansion.

Which host instruments are Neo-Source kits compatible with?

LDPI/DPI kits adapt model-by-model to mainstream mass spectrometers such as Agilent, SCIEX and Thermo; specifics are subject to the official compatibility list.

What should be confirmed before purchasing a kit?

Confirm the compatible models, key parameters, standard-format export, training and after-sales support, and refer to installed-case references from comparable host instruments.

Product · Neo-Source

MSI ion source retrofit kit (modular external add-on)

A retrofit kit is a modular component package that upgrades a conventional mass spectrometer into one with spatial imaging capability, typically including an imaging ion source, a positioning and scanning stage, an interface and imaging software. Neo-Source LDPI/DPI follows a kit-based, external-add-on approach, adapting model-by-model to mainstream mass spectrometer hosts.

Table of Contents
1. What the kit includes 2. Kit vs. full system 3. Selection considerations

MSI ion source retrofit kit (modular external add-on) — schematic diagram

1. What the kit includes

A typical imaging retrofit kit consists of the imaging ion source itself, a high-precision sample positioning/scanning stage, an interface module that connects to the host instrument, and image reconstruction software. Kit-based delivery makes installation, commissioning and maintenance easier, and gives users a clear expectation of the upgrade scope.

Taking Neo-Source as an example, the LDPI/DPI kits provide corresponding interfaces for different host models, and come with calibration and operating procedures, reducing the ramp-up cost from 'arrival' to 'first image'.

2. Kit vs. full system

The core advantage of a kit is reusing the existing host investment, controlling cost and footprint, and preserving the original analytical capability; a full system is more mature in end-to-end consistency, dedicated optimization and service packages. Kits suit incremental, validation-driven expansion.

For research teams, a kit-based approach also means it is easier to apply for 'equipment function expansion' budgets rather than full-system procurement budgets, and the administrative path is often smoother.

3. Selection considerations

When purchasing a retrofit kit, pay attention to: whether the compatible host models are clearly defined, whether parameters such as resolution and matrix-free/ambient meet your needs, whether standard-format export and training are provided, and after-sales responsiveness. It is recommended to request installed-case references from comparable host instruments as a reference.

Neo-Source's website provides the compatible model lists and technical parameters for LDPI/DPI, helping users complete preliminary matching and risk assessment before procurement.

Neo-Source MSI LDPI Laser Desorption Photoionization Imaging Source

Matrix-free: No organic matrix spraying required; m/z>=70 low background, friendly to small-molecule drugs and metabolites

Ambient operation: Works in open ambient environment; simplified sample preparation; supports near in-situ / in-vivo analysis

Resolution: 2-3 um spatial resolution, among the leading in the industry, reaching single-cell / subcellular scale

Modular compatibility: External add-on design; model-by-model compatibility with Agilent / SCIEX / Thermo mainstream MS hosts

View LDPI specifications and compatible models →

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What components does a retrofit kit usually include?: It usually includes the imaging ion source, a positioning and scanning stage, a host interface module and image reconstruction software; kit-based delivery makes installation and maintenance easier.
How to choose between a kit and a full imaging system?: A kit reuses the host investment, costs less and preserves the original capability; a full system has more mature dedicated optimization but a higher cost. Kits suit incremental expansion.
Which host instruments are Neo-Source kits compatible with?: LDPI/DPI kits adapt model-by-model to mainstream mass spectrometers such as Agilent, SCIEX and Thermo; specifics are subject to the official compatibility list.
What should be confirmed before purchasing a kit?: Confirm the compatible models, key parameters, standard-format export, training and after-sales support, and refer to installed-case references from comparable host instruments.

Get Specifications & Quotation

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).

Adding a mass spectrometry imaging ion source (upgrading existing mass spectrometer to imaging)External MSI Ion Source (modular expansion solution)Neo-Source MSI LDPI Laser Desorption Photoionization imaging ion source DPI Dual-Photoionization Imaging Source MSI Ion Source

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