Crystal builder

The program includes Crystal builder generating regular lattices from molecules through the spatial replication of models. It can be invoked from the Edit > Build crystal menu. Both cubic and any triclinic lattices can be generated by setting either the lattice parameters or lattice vectors.

The Cell copies field defines the number of model replicates in different directions. Unfortunately, the current implementation of the replication is not very efficient. It is not recommended to make more than 10–20 model copies at once. If a greater number of copies are required, make them in several steps. For instance, three replications can be carried out separately along the a, b, and c axes.

Switching on the Preview mode makes it possible to visualize the constructed crystal. The model copies under construction can be distinguished from the proper model by a dark color. This mode can be conveniently used to visually adjust the crystal lattice parameters.

After the appropriate lattice parameters and the number of model copies were set, press the Expand button to generate the crystal.