CView: Crystal Structure Visualization & Analysis
CView is a high-performance crystallographic tool written in Rust and GTK4. It bridges the gap between structure visualization and ab-initio calculation setup (VASP, QE, SPRKKR).
This version of CView is built on GTK4, which primarily utilizes the CPU for rendering.
While the engine is optimized, it is designed for crystal structures (unit cells, supercells, slabs). It handles systems up to $\approx 1000$ atoms with ease, but it is not suitable for visualizing massive biological macromolecules (e.g., proteins, DNA) containing millions of atoms.
CView is not just a viewer; it is a pre-calculation validator. It focuses on Reciprocal Space and Geometric consistency to prevent wasted CPU hours on incorrect VASP/QE inputs.
⚡ Why CView?
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Fast & Lightweight | Built on Rust/GTK4. No GPU drivers required. Runs on any laptop. |
| Analysis First | Dedicated tools for K-Paths, Slabs, and Void Analysis. |
| DFT Ready | Native support for VASP, Quantum Espresso, and SPRKKR formats. |
| Publication Quality | Export high-resolution, transparent PNGs and PDFs using PBR rendering. |
Documentation Overview
This manual is divided into three parts:
- Installation: Get CView running on Linux, Windows, or macOS.
- User Guide: Deep dive into the scientific methodology.
- K-Path Visualization: Brillouin zone construction and HSP selection.
- XRD Simulation: Structure factors and powder diffraction patterns.
- Surface Slabs: Creating vacuum-padded slabs for surface science.
- Tutorials: Step-by-step walkthroughs for real materials (e.g., Bi₂Se₃).
Quick Start
Get up and running in seconds.
# Clone and Run
git clone https://github.com/mavensgroup/cview.git
cd cview
cargo run --release
See the Installation Page for detailed OS-specific instructions.
Supported Formats
| Format | VASP | Quantum Espresso | SPRKKR | CIF / XYZ |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Read | 🟢 | 🟢 | 🟢 | 🟢 |
| Write | 🟢 | 🟠 | 🟠 | 🟢 |
| Relaxation | 🟢 | 🟢 | 🔴 | 🔴 |
Links
This is an α (alpha) release. While the core functionality is operational, the software may contain incomplete features, bugs, or unstable behaviour.
Contributions from testers and developers are welcome.
📜 License & Citation
CView is open-source software licensed under the LGPLv3.
If you use CView in your research, please cite the repository.