• VEX Supported

• Native code compilation

• 32- and 64-bit types

• Partial multitasking

• Proprietary libraries

• Works out-of-box, built-in IDE

• Superseded by Midnight C​

EasyC is a programming language for the VEX Cortex. It initially appears to sport a drag-and-drop interface designed for beginners, but hides a full C text editor and compiler underneath that can compile to native code for the Cortex.

Features

• Native code compilation (thus fast execution)

• Built-in library is a good compromise between ease of use and granularity

• VEX-supported with strong community following, especially among high school teams

• IDE integrates firmware updates, code authoring, compilation, and flashing into one program

• Extensive documentation and help files

Shortcomings

• Not all C features are available, including pointers and the standard library. However, the early versions of Midnight C are completely backwards-compatible with EasyC and unlock said functionality

• Not free and works only on Windows

• Advanced C editor has been somewhat neglected and does not feature code completion

• Flash utility does not cooperate with powered programming adapters.

• Low-level code performance poor, with buggy library functions and unpredictable timing Jitter​

Teams Contributed to this Article:

• ​BLRS (Purdue SIGBots)