VEX just released their compact encoders that go on the back of motors. They communicate to the Cortex via I2C. Is this new encoder communication functionality available in ROBOTC yet? I would look for myself, but I don't have access to it right now.

Not quite. We have the functionality + built-in PID in the works.

Do you know when RobotC will be ready for the new encoders. I just ordered some and want to get them programmed next week

Our current estimate is late this week or early next week.

So what exactly will be included in the new release of RobotC? What I really mean is what with the built-in PID.

The ROBOTC team is in the final stages of testing version 3.06, which includes support for the new encoders (among other things). We know that many of you have the physical encoders and are just waiting on software support, so we have an early version you can download here: http://www.robotc.net/files/ROBOTCforCortexPIC_306.exe If all goes as expected, this will be final version.

Documentation on the new features and how to use the encoders can be found here: http://www.robotc.net/blog/2012/02/08/programming-with-the-new-vex-integrated-motor-encoders/ Built-in PID and Target Distances are not yet supported, but are planned for the near future.

Feedback is welcome and appreciated, especially during our testing phase.

Is it possible RobotC will give us new high level commands that take advantage of the encoders like moving the motor at a specific speed?

So when is 3.06 coming out. I have the encoders already on my robot but nothing to program them with. You said they would be out by this week.

We've built the final version of ROBOTC 3.06. You'll be able to download it here within the hour: http://www.robotc.net/download/cortex/