For molecular modelers and researchers working on complex systems, efficiency can often be improved with a personalized workspace. The SAMSON interface offers robust customization tools that allow users to adapt its structure to their specific needs, ensuring that frequently used tools and views are always accessible.
Why Customize the Interface?
Every molecular design project can differ significantly in scope and requirements. Whether you’re fine-tuning molecular structures or running simulations, having a cluttered or non-optimized interface can slow you down. By rearranging tools and views tailored to your current workflow, you can reduce distractions, shorten task times, and focus more on the science.
How to Rearrange Components
SAMSON allows you to rearrange core panels, such as the Document view, History, and Inspector, as well as others contributed by SAMSON Extensions, through simple drag-and-drop actions. Here’s how you can do it:
- Press and hold the title bar of any widget (e.g., Document view or Inspector).
- Drag the widget to your preferred location.
- Release the mouse button to dock the widget into its new position.
Widgets can be docked together in the same area, stacked on top of each other, or even left floating for quick access.
Using Shortcuts for Faster Access
Customization isn’t just visual. SAMSON provides convenient shortcuts to instantly toggle interface components. For example:
| Interface Part | Shortcut (Windows/Linux) | Shortcut (Mac) |
|---|---|---|
| Document view | Ctrl+1 | Cmd+1 |
| Inspector | Ctrl+2 | Cmd+2 |
| History | Ctrl+3 | Cmd+3 |
Using these shortcuts can significantly enhance your navigation, especially when working on large systems.
Save Your Configurations
The changes you make to the interface layout, whether docking widgets or choosing specific menu configurations, are automatically saved. This means the next time you open SAMSON, your customized interface will be ready to go, without needing to reconfigure it.
Additional Tips for Customization
- Keep frequently used tools in areas that are easily accessible. For instance, place components like the Inspector or History in a location close to your main working area (e.g., the viewport).
- Experiment with floating windows. When working with multiple monitors, you can undock certain views and drag them to a secondary screen, maximizing your screen real estate.
- Save time with the Find everything box at the top of the ribbon menu, which allows you to quickly locate commands, apps, and editors. The shortcut for this tool is Shift+E.
- Add your favorite commands or tools to the favorites sections of the ribbon menu for even quicker access.
Stay Flexible
Different projects may require different workflows. SAMSON’s workspaces allow you to switch between predefined configurations, streamlining repetitive tasks while giving you the freedom to explore new layouts.
To learn more about interface customization and other features, visit the official documentation.
SAMSON and all SAMSON Extensions are free for non-commercial use. Ready to explore? Get SAMSON here.