FAQs for Scientists

What types of files does syGlass support?

syGlass supports a wide variety of image and annotation data formats. Beyond those listed below, many formats can be easily converted into compatible files; our support team can assist you with this process if necessary.

  • Volumetric image data in TIFF, PNG, JPEG, DICOM, VSI, OIR, IMS, CZI, ND2, LIF,  local OME-Zarr, SLD, and SLDY files

  • Surface / mesh data in OBJ, FBX, and STEP files

  • Macromolecular structures in PDB, CIF, ENT, and BRK files

  • High-dimensional scatter plot data in CSV files

  • Counting, tracking, and tracings data in CSV files

  • Slideshow images as PNGs

What type of hardware is needed to run syGlass?

syGlass supports nearly all VR headsets that connect to a PC, through integrated support for both Steam VR and Oculus VR platforms.

Our current recommendations are the Meta Quest 3 and PICO 4 headsets, which offer high-resolution at a reasonable price.

A PC meeting the following requirements is also needed:

  • OS: Windows 10 or 11

  • GPU: RTX 3060 or better required, RTX 4080 or better recommended

  • RAM: 16 GB required, 32 GB or more recommended

What analysis features are available in syGlass?

syGlass provides a wide variety of image analysis tools for object counting, tracking (over time), tracing (tree-like structures), 3D segmentation, surface creation, measurement, and more.

syGlass also provides utilities for proofreading annotations done via machine learning workflows or other software, and has a Python API to interface with code for the purpose of training or applying automated annotation pipelines.

For more information about potential applications of syGlass in your workflows, send us a message—we can advise and provide a demo license of the software for you to try.

What do I get when I purchase syGlass?

syGlass licenses are purchased as an all-in-one package for perpetual use: there are no additional costs for any features, and you can continue to use the version of syGlass that you purchase forever, without any recurring cost.

After one year, you may elect to pay an annual fee for ongoing software updates and support. We deliver attentive support and multiple meaningful updates per year, leading many of our users to consider this option.

How does licensing of syGlass software work?

The syGlass license is a cloud-based, floating license. You may install syGlass on as many machines as desired. When the first machine activates the application, it checks out the license, preventing the other machines from using it. Once the application on the first machine is closed, the other machines may open the software and utilize the license.

Multi-seat licenses are also available and work in the same way: a machine in use occupies one seat on the license, which is freed up when syGlass is closed on that machine.

For installations where internet access is not available to validate a license, physical USB keys or long-term checkout of licenses for offline use can be applied.

How quickly can I learn to use syGlass?

syGlass has very intuitive controls; even a VR novice can learn the basics in their first session. Your group will be onboarded by one of our experts to learn the capabilities of the available tools. Embedded and online tutorials on tools and workflows help to provide on-demand training. As questions arise about the use of syGlass in your workflows, our team is here to assist any time you need it.

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