Installing and starting a computational platform for molecular modeling like SAMSON can feel daunting at first—especially with system-specific variations. However, SAMSON’s structured installation and startup process ensures scientists, researchers, and molecular modelers can get started with minimal friction across Windows, Mac, and Linux. Let’s break down how you can easily install and launch SAMSON on your device, adjusting to your operating system.
Step 1: Confirm Your Requirements
Before you begin the installation, ensure your computer satisfies the requirements and platform dependencies. This includes verifying operating system support, hardware resources, and dependencies, particularly if you’re using Linux. A little preparation here will save you time down the line.
Step 2: Install SAMSON
- Download the installer specific to your operating system from the Install SAMSON page.
- Follow the installer instructions, which will guide you through the setup, sign-in process, and license key entry.
- If you encounter any issues, consult the Troubleshooting section for solutions, including graphics issues.
Step 3: Starting SAMSON on Your Operating System
Windows
Once installed, you can launch SAMSON through the Start menu. Simply type “SAMSON” in the search bar if you don’t see it immediately. Alternatively, navigate to the executable directly at:
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C:/Users/%USERNAME%/OneAngstrom/SAMSON-Application/11.0.0/Binaries/SAMSON-Core.exe |
Mac
On Mac, SAMSON is added to Launchpad and the Applications folder during installation. Click SAMSON to start the software. It is installed in the following default location:
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$HOME/Applications/SAMSON.app/ |
Linux
Linux users can find SAMSON in the Apps dashboard or directly start it by navigating to the installation folder and running the startup script:
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~/OneAngstrom/SAMSON-Application/11.0.0/Binaries/SAMSON-Core.sh |
For frequent use, you can create an alias in your terminal configuration file such as ~/.bashrc or ~/.zprofile:
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alias samson='$HOME/OneAngstrom/SAMSON-Application/11.0.0/Binaries/SAMSON-Core.sh' |
After saving this alias, you can launch SAMSON by simply typing samson in a new terminal window.
If you face issues on Linux with AMD/ATI graphics cards, follow solutions provided in Troubleshooting.
Additional Help for Your Workflow
Once SAMSON is up and running, we recommend starting with resources that are designed to help you get comfortable with this powerful platform:
- First look: the interface – for an introduction to SAMSON’s UI.
- Loading molecules – for guidance on opening and working with molecular structures.
- SAMSON Connect – to discover extensions, manage licenses, and access shared resources.
Getting started with SAMSON is simple and adaptable to your unique setup. Ready to delve deeper? Explore the Getting Started page to learn more.
Note: SAMSON and all SAMSON Extensions are free for non-commercial use. Get SAMSON today to start designing molecules with ease!