Anyone working in molecular modeling or structural biology knows the frustration of running into an unsupported file format. You’re given a dataset from a collaborator, perhaps in a less common format like MRC or CCP4 for electron density, or a custom file exported from another simulation platform—but your software doesn’t recognize it. 😩
This bottleneck is more than just a nuisance. It slows down your workflow, creates unnecessary reformatting steps, and at times even makes collaboration difficult. But let’s take a closer look at how SAMSON, the integrative molecular design platform, addresses this issue with its modular importer system, and what you can actually do if your format isn’t currently supported.
What Are Importers in SAMSON?
Importers in SAMSON are dedicated components specifically designed to parse molecular and materials science files. They cover a wide range of data types, from molecular geometries (like .pdb or .mol2) to volumetric data (like electron densities).
By default, SAMSON includes a solid set of importers that can handle many common scientific formats out-of-the-box. These allow users to load atoms, molecules, volumetric maps, and other simulation-generated data without requiring additional plugins or conversion steps.
You can view the up-to-date list of supported file types here: formats supported by SAMSON.
Adding More Importers From SAMSON Connect
If your data format isn’t supported by default, there’s a good chance that a solution exists on SAMSON Connect. Think of it as a repository of ready-to-install modules—including custom importers—developed by the SAMSON community and contributors.
Adding a new importer is just a few clicks away. Open SAMSON, go to the Add-On Store (SAMSON Connect), look up the format or parser you need, and install it directly into your local environment without restarting your project.
Still Can’t Find Your Format?
If you can’t find an importer for your specific file type, you’re not out of options. SAMSON openly invites users to reach out if a particular importer is missing. They may be able to help you identify an alternative or guide you through the process of developing a custom importer yourself.
Creating Your Own Importers
For users comfortable with development, SAMSON provides extensive support and documentation on building custom importers using its Extension system. You can get started with the SAMSON Extension Generator, which scaffolds your project so you can focus on implementing your parser logic.
The Documentation Center contains detailed guides, API references, and examples to help you build reliable and reusable importers—whether it’s for a personal tool or a format used by your research team.
Why This Matters
Whether you’re analyzing crystallographic data or running reactive force field simulations, file compatibility should not limit your research. By supporting both default and customizable importer modules, SAMSON ensures that you stay in your modeling zone, not in conversion tools.
If you’re interested in utilizing or building importers in SAMSON, explore the official importer documentation here: https://documentation.samson-connect.net/users/latest/importers/.
SAMSON and all SAMSON Extensions are free for non-commercial use. You can download SAMSON at https://www.samson-connect.net.