When it comes to building molecular structures efficiently, every molecular modeler faces the challenge of finding the right building blocks quickly and easily. Enter the Asset Browser in SAMSON—a powerful tool that provides streamlined access to an array of assets, from simple atoms to complex molecule fragments.
The Asset Browser is your gateway to a vast repository of molecular fragments, functional groups, rings, radicals, proteins, and more. This feature significantly accelerates the process of constructing molecular models for analysis and simulation, saving you precious time in your workflow. Let’s explore how you can make the most out of it.
Start with the Basics
The Asset Browser is accessible when you activate the Add editor. Simply open it, and you’ll find a categorized library of assets included by default in SAMSON. You can also extend this library by obtaining additional assets from SAMSON Connect. From individual atoms to entire molecular fragments, you’ll have everything you need at your fingertips.
Looking for something specific? Use the “Filter assets…” search bar at the top of the browser to locate your desired elements instantly. You can even customize the display by zooming in or out using Ctrl + mouse wheel, or by clicking on the magnifying glass icons. For those who prefer a particular layout, switch between grid and list views using the buttons at the bottom of the browser.
Browsing, Filtering, and Integration
The Asset Browser ensures a smooth and intuitive navigation experience. You’ll notice various folders categorizing assets, such as aromatics, functional groups, and more. Experiment with these folders to see what’s available, and don’t hesitate to filter to narrow down the options. This approach works particularly well if you’re working on unique models requiring specialized components.
When you select an asset, you can immediately place it in the Viewport for molecular construction. For example, adding individual atoms takes just a click on one of the quick-access elements like H, C, N, or O displayed at the bottom of the browser.
Customization at Your Fingertips
SAMSON isn’t just about using predefined assets—it also empowers you to customize and organize your molecular building blocks. Want to change the size of the icons or labels for better clarity? Adjust these by simply zooming in with Ctrl + mouse wheel. Prefer a different view for navigating your resources? The grid and list layout options offer adaptability to suit your needs.
If you have a library of personal molecular fragments or building blocks you’d like to work with in SAMSON, you’re not limited to the preset database. SAMSON allows you to integrate your own fragments or assets, making your molecular modeling projects even more personalized. Just contact the SAMSON team at contact@samson-connect.net to include your customized library.
Accelerating Molecular Modeling
Research workflows benefit significantly from tools that simplify and speed up repetitive tasks. The Asset Browser is one such tool, helping you collect and organize molecular building blocks intelligently for effortless access. Whether you are creating small molecules, exploring nanomaterials, or constructing biological systems, this feature will act as a cornerstone of your modeling toolkit.
Ready to take your modeling efficiency to the next level? Explore the Asset Browser documentation for additional tips and guidance on leveraging this powerful tool.
Note: SAMSON and all SAMSON Extensions are free for non-commercial use. You can download SAMSON at https://www.samson-connect.net.