For molecular modelers, flexibility is key. You may want to quickly switch between tools, test out new algorithms, or streamline your modeling environment. Customizing your setup can become time-consuming, especially when working with a wide array of software modules. SAMSON addresses this challenge with its extension system, allowing users to easily manage what features are available in their workspace through SAMSON Extensions.
Extensions let you tailor SAMSON to your specific needs — whether you’re running quantum chemistry simulations, modeling molecular dynamics, or using machine learning-enabled predictors. Here’s how you can manage these modules effectively through SAMSON Connect.
Where to Find Extensions
The Marketplace section of SAMSON Connect is your one-stop shop for all available extensions. Each extension comes with its own page listing supported platforms (Windows, Linux, macOS), version compatibility, authorship, and description. You can find it here: Marketplace.
Adding Extensions
To add an extension:
- Sign in to your SAMSON Connect account.
- Go to the Marketplace and click on the extension you’d like to add.
- If the extension is freely available under your plan, you’ll see an Add button. Clicking it will mark the extension as Added.
Once you restart SAMSON, the extension downloads and installs automatically, with no further steps required.
Trying or Subscribing
Some extensions are subscription-based:
- To try one, click Request trial (no credit card required).
- To subscribe, select a monthly/yearly/academic plan and click Subscribe.
Removing Extensions
If your workspace is getting cluttered or you no longer need an extension, removing it is straightforward:
- Go to Account > Settings > View my extensions.
- Find your extension and hover over the Added button.
- Click on Remove.
- Restart SAMSON to complete the removal.
Even after removal, the extension will remain visible under your list, making it easy to re-enable later.
Conclusion
By managing extensions through SAMSON Connect, you can create a streamlined modeling environment tailored to your current project — no more bloated installs or hardcoded toolkits. Just what you need, when you need it.
Want to explore further? Visit the full documentation: SAMSON Connect Documentation.
SAMSON and all SAMSON Extensions are free for non-commercial use. You can get SAMSON at https://www.samson-connect.net.