Structure drawing software (chemistry)
From WolfWikis
Numerous software packages for chemical structure drawing are available for chemists. Some are expensive, and have many features, and some are free but lack extras. The list below is just a sampling of common packages, there are many more available for download or web use.
Available at the Libraries
The Libraries do not have any commercial structure drawing packages available, but you can use the drawing applications that are part of major chemistry databases.
SciFinder
SciFinder has a robust structure drawing tool when you do a structure or reaction search. You can save and export structures from there.
Beilstein/Gmelin
When downloading the CrossFire Commander software (used for the Beilstein/Gmelin chemistry databases), you will have the option to additionally download a chemical structure drawing package. Highly recommended for working with Beilstein/Gmelin, but useful for more general structure drawing tasks as well.
Freely available options
Many free structure drawing software packages are available, with varying reliability and available features. These are just a few.
Jmol
Available freely online. Very robust for a free, open source program. Recommended.
ISIS/Draw
Available online. A free, scaled down version of MDL Chime structure drawing software. Requires a brief registration with Elsevier.
ACD/ChemSketch 12.0 Freeware
Available online. A free version of ACD's software.
PubChem
PubChem has a browser-based structure searching/drawing tool that allows exports.
MarvinSketch
Available online. Java software from ChemAxon. Should work on any platform, including Mac.
ChemDoodle
Available online. Free, works on various platforms.
Not free, not available at the Libraries
ChemDraw
Part of CambdridgeSoft's ChemBioOffice suite. Widely used. Can be expensive for commercial use, but you can download a trial version. Check CambridgeSoft website for additional information. This is not available at the NCSU Libraries.
MDL Chime
Not free for commercial use. NCSU students, faculty, and staff can get a version of it with a download of CrossFire Commander (see above).