Are you using a high DPI monitor and noticing that the icons in SAMSON are appearing unusually small? This can be a frustrating experience for molecular modelers who rely on clear visuals for their work. Thankfully, there is an easy fix for Windows users to resolve this scaling issue. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure SAMSON looks crisp and readable on your high DPI screen.
Step 1: Access the Compatibility Settings
The solution lies in tweaking SAMSON’s high DPI settings via compatibility adjustments:
- Locate the SAMSON executable on your system.
- Right-click on the executable to open the context menu and select Properties.
- Once the Properties window opens, navigate to the Compatibility tab.

Step 2: Override High DPI Scaling
Now, let’s customize the scaling behavior to work better with your monitor:
- In the Compatibility tab, click on the Change high DPI settings button.
- A new window will pop up. Check the box labeled Override high DPI scaling behavior.
- For the Scaling performed by field, select System from the dropdown menu.

Step 3: Restart SAMSON
Once you have adjusted the settings, simply close the Properties window by clicking Apply and OK. If SAMSON is already running, restart the application for the changes to take effect. You should now see properly scaled icons that are easier to navigate on your high-resolution display.
Why Is This Important?
Many tools within SAMSON rely on precise and accessible visuals, particularly for molecular modelers who work with intricate molecular designs. Properly scaled icons not only improve your user experience but also reduce eye strain, allowing you to focus on your research and designs without unnecessary distractions.
For additional troubleshooting tips for SAMSON, explore the full documentation here: https://documentation.samson-connect.net/users/latest/troubleshooting/.
Note: SAMSON and all SAMSON Extensions are free for non-commercial use. You can download SAMSON at https://www.samson-connect.net.
