.NEO File Extension
NeoChrome Bitmap Image
| Developer | Atari |
| Popularity | |
| Category | Raster Image Files |
| Format | .NEO |
| Cross Platform | Update Soon |
What is an NEO file?
Files with the .NEO extension are associated with NeoChrome, a graphics editor for the Atari ST computer system popular in the late 1980s and early 1990s.
These files store bitmap images created using the NeoChrome software, primarily known for its ability to produce colorful graphics on the limited color palette of the Atari ST.
More Information.
During the era of the Atari ST, which was known for its graphics and sound capabilities relative to other computers of its time, NeoChrome filled a crucial niche.
It allowed users, including artists, game developers, and hobbyists, to create detailed bitmap images using the ST’s 16-color palette. The .NEO file format was the standard format for saving images created within NeoChrome.
Origin Of This File.
NeoChrome was developed by Thomas Kite and initially released in 1986. It quickly became one of the preferred graphics editors for Atari ST users due to its user-friendly interface and advanced features tailored for the system’s graphical capabilities.
File Structure Technical Specification.
The .NEO file format is relatively straightforward, designed to store pixel data arranged in a grid corresponding to the dimensions of the image. Key technical specifications include:
- Resolution: Typically matches the screen resolution of the Atari ST, often 320×200 pixels or 640×400 pixels.
- Color Depth: Limited to the Atari ST’s 16-color palette, which includes various shades and hues.
- Compression: NeoChrome files may utilize RLE (Run-Length Encoding) compression to reduce file size, although this varies based on user settings within NeoChrome.
How to Convert the File?
Converting .NEO files to more widely compatible formats involves several steps:
- Emulation: Use Atari ST emulation software on modern computers to run NeoChrome and export images in alternative formats.
- Image Conversion Tools: Use specialized graphic conversion tools that support .NEO files, often requiring plugins or specific settings to retain fidelity.
- Manual Reproduction: In some cases, converting .NEO files may involve manually recreating the image in a modern graphics editor while referencing the original .NEO file.
Advantages And Disadvantages.
Advantages:
- Optimized for Atari ST: .NEO files are perfectly optimized for the Atari ST’s graphics capabilities, ensuring fidelity and efficient use of the 16-color palette.
- Historical Significance: They hold historical value for Atari enthusiasts and retro computing historians, preserving the visual style and limitations of the era.
Disadvantages:
- Limited Color Palette: The 16-color limit can be restrictive for modern standards, limiting the richness and variety of colors available in contemporary graphics.
- Compatibility Issues: Due to their specific format and association with Atari ST systems, opening and converting .NEO files on modern systems may require emulation or specialized software.
How to Open NEO?
Open In Windows
- Use Atari ST emulators like Hatari or Steem to open .NEO files. These emulators replicate the Atari ST environment on Windows.
Open In Linux
- Hatari is available for Linux and provides the necessary emulation environment to open .NEO files.
Open In MAC
- Similar to Windows, use Atari ST emulators compatible with macOS, such as Hatari.
