MAESTRO software

The MAESTRO software enables efficient and reliable automated sample preparation and sample introduction for GC/MS and LC/MS in a very simple manner: By mouse-click. Every step is selected from a pull-down menu in the MAESTRO software and added to the GC/MS or LC/MS method. All steps, including addition of an internal standard, derivatization, extraction, incubation and agitation, are performed in a highly accurate and reproducible manner for best possible results.

In addition to liquid handling, MAESTRO supports a number of sample preparation and analyte concentration techniques that can be combined with automated sample introduction as specified by the user. Among these are:

• Solid Phase Extraction (SPE)
• Disposable Pipette Extraction (DPX)
• Dynamic Headspace (DHS)
• Automated Liner EXchange (ALEX)
• Thermal Desorption (TDS) and Thermal extraction
• Automated Twister desorption and analysis (SBSE).
• Solid Phase Micro Extraction (SPME) and Headspace GC
  

MAESTRO PrepAhead optimizes productivity and throughput. While a GC or LC run is ongoing, one or several of the following samples can be prepared in parallel. This is done just-in-time such that every sample can be introduced exactly when the analysis system becomes ready. PrepAhead ensures best possible system utilization and sample throughput. Every sample is treated in exactly the same way and the analysis system is always productive.

The MAESTRO Scheduler provides a graphical overview of sample prep steps and the total analysis time for the entire batch of samples to be analyzed, making it easier to plan your laboratory work. Based on the scheduler overview, the effect of any change to the method on productivity is immediately seen on the display, making it easier to optimize throughput.

Flexibility, traceability and support: MAESTRO enables a running analysis sequence to be modified to incorporate priority samples. The ongoing sequence need not be stopped, productivity is ensured. The log functions provide traceability of all steps in the process including sample prep, sample introduction and analysis. Several user support functions are included: Context sensitive on-line help for easy set-up – even when questions arise; log and service log files for traceability and trouble-shooting; remote support software enabling more efficient support by the GERSTEL hot-line; last, but not least, maintenance scheduler function that ensure timely planning of routine maintenance tasks for improved reliability and performance.

MAESTRO can be operated independently as stand-alone software or integrated with the Agilent Technologies ChemStation or MassHunter software. Just one method and one sequence table runs the complete system from Sample Prep and Sample Introduction to GC/MS or LC/MS analysis.