SciFinder Scholar Client

These directions are for the client/server version of SciFinder Scholar. There is also a web-based version that does not require downloading of any software. If you want to use the web-based version, you must first register, instructions are here. Once you have registered, and have your own login and password, you can use the direct link to access SciFinder Scholar. For off-campus access, you can use either the library proxy server or the campus Virtual Private Network client (VPN) if you are using the web-based version of SciFinder Scholar. For the client/sever program, you can only use the campus Virtual Private Network client (VPN) for off-campus access.

In order to download the SciFinder Scholar client, you must first connect to the internet in one of the following ways: (Note: access via the library proxy server is not available)
- use a computer connected to the campus network (campus dorms, labs and offices)
- connect via AirBears, the campus wireless network
- install the Virtual Private Network client (VPN)
- connect via a HIP/SHIP account with a modem over standard telephone lines
Next, read the User Agreement.
Once you have read and accepted the terms by clicking on the appropriate button, you will be allowed to download the software.
Note: the site.prf file is meant only to sit in the same hard disk directory as sfschlr.exe (typically C:\SFSCHLR or C:\Program Files\SFSCHLR). It is not meant to be executed, and it does not belong in the Start Menu shortcut folder for SciFinder Scholar.

Please allow other UC researchers to use this resource by minimizing connect time and logging out as soon as searches are completed.

For more information about SciFinder Scholar at UCB including questions about access, contact Mary Ann Mahoney (mmahoney@library.berkeley.edu) or phone 510 642-4345.