Getting Started

Before getting started, note how to navigate this website:

  • The "Documentation" menu gives instructions on how to use the VTB and gives some tutorials.

  • The "Models" menu lists the models available in the VTB:

    • By Filter filters the available models by several criteria, such as reactor type, code used, or simulation type.

    • By Index provides several manually maintained lists of the models, such as by reactor type or transient scenario.

  • The "Support" menu lists contact and help information.

  • The Github logo link will take you to the VTB Github repository.

To get started with the Virtual Test Bed (VTB), follow these steps:

Step 1: Register for the VTB

First register for the VTB.

Step 2: Install git

The VTB is an open-source git repository and is hosted on Github. If it is not already installed on your computer, install it; see here for example.

Step 3: Install git-lfs (Optional)

Some models require git-lfs as well, which is used for storing very large files such as large meshes. If your model of interest does not require git-lfs, then feel free to skip this step. To install git-lfs, see here.

Step 4: Download the VTB Repository

Choose a download location on your computer (here, we will add the VTB repository in the ~/projects/ directory), and then clone the VTB in your terminal as follows:


cd ~/projects
git clone [email protected]:idaholab/virtual_test_bed.git

This will create a new directory ~/projects/virtual_test_bed/ to mirror the VTB repository hosted on Github.

Step 5: Browse Models

Browse the VTB models using the "Models" menu.

Step 6: Obtain Codes

Each model page should list the codes needed. See Codes Used in the VTB for information on obtaining each code.

Step 7: Run Models

Continue to Running Models to learn how to run VTB models.