NeatTools is a visual programming language that creates programs for data collection, gesture recognition, control of external devices, virtual world control, and perceptual modulation. Some of the functionality is ported from Neat Software developed for Dr. Dave Warner at the Institute for Interventional Informatics from 1993 to 1995.
The visual interface is similar to AVS. Different modules are selected, placed in a work area, and connected by lines. The connections indicate a data flow from one module to another. The line color indicates the type of data flowing.
The software consists of JavaScript, Java, and native C code. JavaScript is used for buttons and forms. Java is used for the AVS-like graphical user interface, and for JavaScript/Java/C code generation. Native C code is used for accessing hardware devices, and to bypass Java/Netscape security checks.
The NeatTools environment is extensible. New modules can be added by running tools which specify characteristics of the module. Code generators then provide all code required for fitting the module into the environment.