13. Using the 3D Pointer

X-Ray crystallography applications use Pointer Palette tools to set the position of a 3D pointer used for selecting general coordinates within the model space of a structure. Unlike atom picking, the selected coordinates may not correspond to an atom position.


This chapter describes

This chapter describes tools on the Pointer palette.

Access the Pointer Palette by selecting Display Map at Pointer from the X-AUTOBUILD:X-BUILD palette. The XYZ Dials Emulator is also activated so that you can move the pointer.


Clear ID

Removes atom IDs that are displayed when atoms are picked. This tool does not affect labels generated by Label Atoms.


Atom Info

Prints information in the textport about subsequently picked atoms, including atom name, atom number, residue number,< segment number, molecule number, XYZ coordinates, fourth parameter value, color, CHARMm atom type name and number, atomic charge, energy parameters, radius parameters, and set number and label.


Set origin

Places the picked atom at the center of the viewing area. This atom becomes the center of rotation for subsequent operations.


Center

Calculates the geometric center of currently displayed atoms and places this center at the center of the viewing area. This geometric center becomes the center of rotation for subsequent operations.


Contacts

Displays atoms that are in contact with any picked atom.


Set Pointer Position

Displays a graphical pointer in the shape of a tetrahedron. The pointer is initially placed at the center of the viewing area and is moveable. You can move the pointer in three ways:


Accept Position

Accepts current position of the pointer as the center of the map display or the location for adding waters.


Quit

Exits the Pointer Palette and returns to the palette from which you accessed the Pointer Palette.


© 2006 Accelrys Software Inc.