Understanding File Attributes in SAMSON’s Node Specification Language (NSL)

For molecular modelers working with SAMSON, managing and organizing node data efficiently is critical for streamlined workflows. One of the key concepts to understand in SAMSON’s Node Specification Language (NSL) is the file attribute space, commonly referred to by its short name: fi. This attribute space is exclusively used for file nodes in your system. Let’s explore the essentials of file attributes and how they can make a difference in your everyday modeling tasks.

What Are File Attributes?

In SAMSON’s NSL, file attributes define specific properties applicable solely to file nodes. These attributes extend from the broader node attribute space, meaning they inherit some of the properties defined for general nodes. By using this clear attribute space, one can filter, query, and control file nodes with precision, simplifying file management in complex molecular structures.

Core File Attributes

Below are three file attributes you will likely encounter:

  • name: This property, inherited from node.name, allows you to assign or filter a file node’s name as a string in quotes. For example:

  • selected: This Boolean attribute indicates whether a file node is selected (true) or not (false). It is an inheritance from node.selected, but note that it does not have the short name “s.” Example usage includes:

  • selectionFlag: Often simplified as sf, this attribute also takes true or false values. Like selected, it is inherited from node.selectionFlag. For instance:

How Can This Help You?

By mastering these file attributes, molecular modelers gain a powerful set of tools to query and manipulate file nodes efficiently. For instance, you could filter files by name patterns, locate selected files, or toggle selection flags as part of your workflow. This enables nuanced searches, better organization, and more precise control, especially in larger modeling projects where files and nodes can become numerous and complex to manage.

Learn More About File Attributes

To dive deeper, check out the original documentation directly: NSL File Attribute Documentation. It provides a comprehensive view of how file attributes fit into SAMSON’s molecular modeling architecture.

*Note: SAMSON and all SAMSON Extensions are free for non-commercial use. You can download SAMSON at https://www.samson-connect.net.

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