Differences Between 5972 and 5973

[MarkRob]

Hello,

We are a small environmental lab and we are looking to purchase a second GC-MSD system.

Currently we have a 5972 which works fine. Money is an issue (as with everyone), so with this in mind what would be the advantages for paying almost twice the price for a 5973 vs. a refurbished 5972?

I know that the 5973 has electronic pressure control. (I've lived with out it up until now) .

I also know that Agilent has stopped supporting 5972's.

Any comments are appreciated.

M

[Schmitty]

I have found that the sensitivity is comparable between the two. You will also have to worry about getting the correct computer, software, HPIB card and controller. In my experience, the newer (1701CA, DA and EA) software will not work to control the MS.

That being said, we have a 5890/5972 sitting doing nothing becasue it has an error with the diffusion pump temperature switch, and we cannot buy one from Agilent.

[AICMM]

MarkRob, Schmitty,

I would approach it this way. If I were going to be doing semi-volatiles where the MS and soure take more abuse, I would spend the extra money and get a new 73. I have found that the 73 is more sensitive than the 72 and that allows you to do a better split with SVOAs which reduces the amount of crap on column/source. If I were going to commit the "new" instrument to VOA's then I would probably go with a used/refurbished 72. There are tons of people who support the 72's and the parts for them are available in lots of places. I would still get a system that has EPC though.

Regarding the diffusion pump switch, Restek has one in their current catalog which might solve your problem. If not, post again and I can lead you to some people who should be able to get you one.

Best regards.

[Schmitty]

Thanks, AICMM, I will check with Restek.