The second version of SSD (Surface Structure Database) appeared in 199
6, updating its first version, published in 1993. SSD-2 includes nearl
y 1000 structure analyses (an increase of 64%) published through mid-1
995, as well as numerous software extensions and improvements. SSD is
an interactive PC-based database of experimentally determined surface
structures. For maximum reliability and usefulness, the structures are
critically selected to be completely solved, by established technique
s. The database includes extensive information not only about atomic p
ositions, bond lengths and angles, but also about experimental prepara
tion, measurement and analysis methods. The main features of SSD inclu
de an advanced search and display system, as well as interactive 3D co
lor visualization and analysis tools of great flexibility. It is also
possible to generate publication-ready color or gray-scale prints of a
ny structure. A printed version of SSD-1, called ''Atlas of Surface St
ructures,'' is available and also described here.