The select command has been enhanced in Chimera and now has dual functions. The newer function is selection. The older function is activation for motion.

Selection

Usage:
select atom-spec

Usage:
~select atom-spec

Usage:
select [ up | down | invert | invert sel ]

The newer function of select is selection of atoms and/or surface models. The atom-spec can specify any combination of atoms and surfaces; a blank specification selects all. The effect of “select atom-spec” on an existing selection depends on the selection mode. ~Select removes the specified atoms from the selection regardless of selection mode.

Keyword arguments:

• up - broaden the selection
• down - narrow the selection
• invert - invert the selection within all models, like Select... Invert (all models) in the menu
• invert sel - invert the selection within models containing selections only, like Select... Invert (selected models) in the menu

select  #1

~select  :/isHelix

See also: namesel, zonesel, arrow key shortcuts

Activation for Motion

Usage:
select [ all | model_number(s) ]

Usage:
~select [ all | model_number(s) ]

The original function of select is indicated by use of the keyword all or the absence of a pound sign # before model_number(s). This function, now usually called activation, is to control whether a model can be manipulated interactively. Activation/deactivation allows manually moving one model relative to another. The activation status of models can also be controlled using the Model Panel or checkboxes under the Command Line.

The model_number(s) argument should be one or more model numbers or ranges separated by commas, not preceded by #. The keyword all indicates that all models should be activated. ~Select all will then revert to the previous activation state. This feature is convenient for switching back and forth between moving models relative to one another and global motion of all models.

Examples:

select  1,5-8

See also: split, movie-related commands