[JABianchi]

I think the future of FIRST programming is using ROBOTC - carnegie-mellon's new software, which is compatible with the LEGOS NXT, VEX, and very-soon the FRC controller.

Aside from:

+real-time debugging (robotc can make the robot perform the highlighted line of code as you step-through your program) and

+real-time monitoring (a window automatically shows all variables current value in the program),

I was impressed with the simple little things that make programming much easier:

+A big X next to the line where the compiler is having problems (along with a very detailed explanation). No more scouring for semicolons...

+And as you're typing, the program suggests words in a drop-down box, just like you're using gmail...

You can download a 30-day trial at www.robotc.net, and seats are $100 less than EasyC. (ROBOTC may be included with the 2008 KOP.)

Either way, we'll be using ROBOTC to learn programming on our VEX kits, and look forward to our team using ROBOTC for the FRC comptetion in the coming season.