Detection systems for mass spectrometry imaging: A perspective on novel developments with a focus on active pixel detectors

Instrumental developments for imaging and individual particle detection for biomolecular mass spectrometry (imaging) and fundamental atomic and molecular physics studies are reviewed. Ion‐counting detectors, array detection systems and high mass detectors for mass spectrometry (imaging) are treated. State‐of‐the‐art detection systems for multi‐dimensional ion, electron and photon detection are highlighted. Their application and performance in three different imaging modes – integrated, selected and spectral image detection – are described. Electro‐optical and microchannel‐plate‐based systems are contrasted. The analytical capabilities of solid‐state pixel detectors – both charge coupled device (CCD) and complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) chips – are introduced. The Medipix/Timepix detector family is described as an example of a CMOS hybrid active pixel sensor. Alternative imaging methods for particle detection and their potential for future applications are investigated. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.