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Installation

As an AI application developer using the SiMa NEAT framework, you have two options for setting up your development environment:

  1. Install the NEAT framework and develop your app directly on a Modalix DevKit.
  2. Install the NEAT framework and develop in the NEAT eLxr SDK, then test on a paired DevKit.

Both paths use the same NEAT framework installation procedure. The difference is where you do day-to-day development work.

Prerequisite​

  • You must have a SiMa.ai Modalix 3.0+ Developer Kit.
  • Make sure your Modalix DevKit is connected to the Internet.
  • We recommend creating an account at developer.sima.ai to access assets such as precompiled models for testing.
  • Install sima-cli using the official guide in both your DevKit and host environments.

Which installation should you choose?​

Install OnBest forBenefits
DevKitConvenience and simplicity
  • Fewer moving parts
  • Quick path to first run
  • Everything happens on the device
NEAT eLxr SDKEfficiency and faster iteration
  • Building complex compiled apps in the eLxr SDK is generally about 5-10x faster than building directly on a DevKit
  • SDK helpers integrate the DevKit with the SDK so build/run workflows can stay in the SDK context
  • A better fit for agent-driven workflows and rapid iteration
Python-only workflow tip

If your app is primarily Python, working directly on the DevKit is often sufficient because the Python runtime (pyneat) executes on the DevKit. Use the NEAT eLxr SDK primarily when you need C++ cross-compilation and unified SDK/DevKit orchestration.

  1. Install on NEAT eLxr SDK if you want maximum development efficiency.
  2. Use DevKit directly if you want simplicity.

Follow NEAT Framework to install or update the NEAT runtime/framework on either the NEAT eLxr SDK or a DevKit. The installation procedure is the same in both environments.