Re: MS walkup facility, is it possible?
Gary Hathaway (hathaway@cco.caltech.edu)
Fri, 16 Oct 1998 20:49:56 -0700
Lisa Bibbs wrote:
>>
>>
>> I would like to hear some pros and cons of a walkup from those that have
>> tried it. I would like some specifics please. We really need your
>> expertise.
>>
>> Lisa
>> I read with interest Dan Liebler's comments on Dr.Tom McClure's
>>development of a simplified user interface for the TSQ7000, a triple
>>quadrupole, proof positive that mass spectrometer operation need not be
>>cryptic by definition. The trouble is not every lab is so fortunate to
>>have a talented individual like Tom. The time and resources required to
>>write these open access programs must be considered against the time and
>>resources saved. So, why do operating systems not have the equivalent of
>>a "quick start" mode? I suspect that part of the reason is that there
>>exists a fear (I believe unfounded) of potential liabilies which may be
>>incurred during the initial warranty or extended service contract periods
>>which favors long learning curves. Long learning curves guarantee
>>dedicated trained operators who are less likely to screw up an instrument
>>or spend endless hours on the hot-line for user assistance. How otherwise
>>could a company justify the $1500 charged for a training class on an
>>instrument which they just got >$250,000 for, or an annual extended
>>service contract for $20k+?
I would like to hear from the companies regarding this issue.