ABSTRACT
Fourier transform methods offer three main advantages for spectroscopy. First, multiplex detection followed by Fourier "decoding" leads to a multiplex or Fellgett advantage of a factor of up to N in signal-to-noise ratio compared to an instrument which scans one data point at a time. Second, Fourier techniques provide a variety of simple means for manipulating digitized data: smoothing or filtering to enhance signal-to-noise ratio (SNR); resolution enhancement; generation of integrals or derivatives; and clipping to reduce spectral storage requirements. Third, for any linear system, Fourier methods can be used to remove any known irregularities in the excitation waveform, so that the corrected response reflects only the properties of the sample, and not the imperfections of the measuring device. This chapter reviews the origin, form, excitation, and detection of ion cyclotron resonance mass spectra. It discusses the effect and interplay of various experimental parameters and presents current examples and prospects for biomedical applications of Fourier transform mass spectroscopy (FT-MS).
