User customizable plate handling for MALDI mass spectrometry

摘要: Methods for specifying the layout of a MALDI sample plate are provided. In general, methods involve creating file containing parameters that describe plate, and storing on computer readable medium prior to placement into ion source. many embodiments, includes information about size or shape size, position plate. is placed in source stored accessed used an area laser beam. The subject methods, kits apparatus find use variety different mass spectrometry applications.