New VEX Controller and Joystick Announcement

[Rick TYler]

From http://www.vexforum.com/showthread.php?t=16311:

What will a complete VEXnet system Cost?
The bundle will cost $399.99. The bundle includes (1) VEX Cortex Microcontroller, (1) VEXnet Joystick, (2) VEXnet 802.11 Keys, (1) USB A-A Cable, and (1) VEXnet Battery Holder. It should be available sometime in Q1 of 2010.

When is the VEX Cortex Microcontroller going to be available for purchase?
It should be available as an individual component sometime in Q4 of 2009.

How much does the VEX Cortex Microcontroller cost?
The VEX Cortex Microcontroller retails for $249.99. (VEXnet 802.11 Key not included)

What options do we have for operator control with the VEX Cortex Microcontroller?
There are three different options:

* Use your existing VEX 75 Mhz Receiver + 75 Mhz Transmitter
* Use a 75 Mhz Transmitter + VEXnet Transmitter Upgrade Module + VEXnet 802.11 Key
* Use the VEXnet Joystick + VEXnet 802.11 Key


When will the VEXnet Joystick be available for purchase?
It should be available sometime in Q1 of 2010.

How much does the VEXnet Joystick cost?
The VEXnet Joystick retails for $149.99. (VEXnet 802.11 Key not included)

What are the VEXnet Joystick Features?
Shape and size similar to the Xbox/Playstation controller.

* VEXnet 802.11 capable using (1) VEXnet 802.11 Key
* Dual Joystick capable. You can link two joysticks together. Only one VEXnet 802.11 Key needed.
* (2) X-Y Analog Joysticks
* (8) Top Buttons
* (4) Back Buttons
* (1) 3-Axis Accelerometer providing X-Y Tilt outputs, X-Y-Z acceleration, and a shake output
* (1) Powered by (6) AAA batteries. We recommend using rechargeable AAA batteries.


Will the original PIC based VEX Microcontroller continue to be available?
Yes. The new Cortex Microcontroller is designed for customers that demand industry leading performance.
The original PIC based Microcontroller is a viable and affordable robotics system used in many educational programs. It will continue to be our introductory system.