What happens if you don't reset encoder values before using them?

When encoder values are not reset before use, it can lead to receiving incorrect movement data. Encoders track the rotation of the motors in the robot, providing important feedback about position and movement. If you do not reset the encoder values, they may retain previous readings from prior operations or movements. This means that when new commands are issued to the robot, the system would interpret the encoder data based on outdated or irrelevant information.

For instance, if the last known encoder reading indicated the robot had moved 100 units, but it had been stationary since then, an attempt to use these encoder values would result in calculations that incorrectly assume it has moved. As a consequence, the robot may not perform tasks accurately, and its movements could be erratic or miscalibrated.

This emphasizes the importance of resetting encoder values to ensure that the data being used reflects the current state of the robot and allows for precise control during operations.