# Guide: Running the OpenFlexure Microscope Simulation Server

This guide walks you through running the simulation server for the OpenFlexure Microscope, along with useful tips for using the simulation features.

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## Starting the Simulation Server

1. **Activate your virtual environment** (the same one created during installation, as described in the [README](./README.md)).
2. **Run the simulation server** using the following command:

   ```bash
   openflexure-microscope-server --fallback -c ./ofm_config_simulation.json
   ```

   > Note: If you are using Windows, we advise running this command in PowerShell. If it doesn't work this, might be a permission issue on managed machines, in which case try executing the command in a CMD terminal.

This can fail with an error that the chosen port is already in use. In that case, append `--port 8081`

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## Video Walkthrough

For a step-by-step demonstration, watch the [full video walkthrough on running the simulation server](https://youtu.be/Z8verCqfj9s).

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## Simulation Settings and Tips

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### Autocalibration

* Your simulated microscope should prompt you to complete the auto-calibration wizard upon your first use of the simulated server.
* If the stage moves in the wrong direction in the **View** or **Navigate** tabs, you can re-run **Auto-calibration** from the UI to correct it.
* To auto-calibrate your microscope, go to: **Settings → Camera to Stage Mapping → Auto-Calibrate Using Camera**.

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### Sample Coverage

* The default **sample coverage** of 25% is often too high for simulations. A figure closer to 10% performs better.
* You can adjust this in the **Background Detect tab** under:
  **Configure → Sample Coverage**

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### Background and Samples

* You can **load a sample** to simulate imaging conditions, using the **Load Sample** options in the **Settings tab**.
* To remove a sample and reset the view, use the **Remove Sample** option in the **Settings tab**.
* You can load and remove simulated samples under: **Settings → Camera → Load/Remove Sample**

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### Scans

* If you perform a scan with **0 images** (i.e. cancelling the scan before any images are collected), it will **disappear** from the scan list as soon as a new scan starts.
* Scans are automatically given **Scan IDs** in numerical order if the user does not provide one.

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### Screen Size

* During a Smart Scan (performed in the **Slide Scan tab**), some screen sizes can cause unwanted jitter as shown in the animation below.
* If this happens, change the size of your window until the UI stabilises.

    ![Jitter in the OFM Simulator caused by screen size](/docs/images/ofm_sim_jitter.gif "Jitter in the OFM Simulator caused by screen size")

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If you need further help, reach out to the community on the [OpenFlexure Forum](https://openflexure.discourse.group/).