A molecular modeling workflow can involve more than building or inspecting a structure. You may need to run an external program, connect to a web service, or bring an existing piece of code into your work. The frustrating part is often not knowing where that capability belongs—or where to look for it.
In SAMSON, apps are one way to add workflows. They may connect to an external executable or web service, wrap existing code, or provide functionality built with the SAMSON Application Programming Interface (API). This makes the app category useful to understand when you have a task in mind but are unsure how SAMSON can support it.
Start with the task, not the name
Before searching, describe the step you want to accomplish in plain language. For example: “I need to run a docking workflow,” “I want to connect a tool I already use,” or “I need functionality that works with SAMSON.” This helps you look for an app that addresses a workflow, rather than guessing which extension family might contain it.
The AutoDock Vina Extended App image above is an example of an app in SAMSON’s documentation. It illustrates the kind of task-oriented tool you may encounter; it is not a guarantee that every app works the same way. Check an app’s own information to understand what it does and what it requires.
Where to look
Open Home > Apps to find apps in SAMSON. SAMSON includes a set of apps by default, and more can be added from SAMSON Connect. If you are checking what is available or managing installed extensions, SAMSON Connect is the related place to explore.
When evaluating an app, keep a short checklist:
- Does it match the step I need? Compare the app’s purpose with the task you wrote down.
- Does it depend on something external? Some apps may connect to an executable or a web service, so identify any requirements described for that app.
- Is this actually an app? SAMSON also has other extension families. Editors, importers, and exporters serve different roles, so the distinction can help narrow your search.
- Where can I find or manage it? Use the Apps area and SAMSON Connect as starting points for discovering and managing extensions.
Apps are one part of the extension landscape
Apps belong to the broader family of SAMSON Extensions. If your immediate goal is to add or remove extensions, or to understand the available extension families, start with the Extending SAMSON guide. If you are comparing tools by role, the documentation also covers editors, importers, and exporters.
If your need is not met by an existing app and you want to build one, the documentation points developers to generating SAMSON Extensions and the Documentation center. That is a separate path from simply finding and using an app.
A practical way to avoid wasted searching is to map your workflow first: identify the task, decide whether you need an app or another extension type, then look in the relevant SAMSON area and verify the specific app’s requirements. For an overview of apps and related references, read the SAMSON Apps documentation.
Note: SAMSON and all SAMSON Extensions are free for non-commercial use. Get SAMSON.