IDL2Matlab is a program for automatically translating a program from IDL into Matlab and Scilab. IDL and Matlab are two major numerical languages for scientists. Scilab is a free Matlab-like language. Many IDL programs have been developed in large facilities studying astrophysics, geology, medicine, and particle and nuclear physics. On the other hand, Matlab is widely used in smaller laboratories, such as universities and national scientific agencies. This program is designed to extend the portability of such IDL programs.
McStas is a computer program (written in C) that enables you to model very precisely a neutron instrument described as a series of various components. A source component shoots each neutron randomly (Monte-Carlo), and the particle is then propagated through the different instrument components. These later act on the neutron characteristics (position, speed, direction, spin, etc.). Usually, one installs some detectors along the neutron path to monitor its characteristics and flux.