Novag PRIMO User manual

4
K
King
Konig
Q
Queen
Dame
B
Bishop
Laufer
N
Knight
Springer
R
Rock
Turm
P
Pawn
Bauer
Character explanation
Various signs, symbols and terms are used in this manual to simplify the descriptions.
The following explanation should help you to understand the operating instructions for
the PRIMO more easily.
LCD This is the abbreviation for the information display of the
PRIMO (LCD = Liquid Crystal Display).
Coordinate LEDs This is what the 16 light-emitting diodes are called in these
instructions, which indicate the coordinates of the fields
(LED = Light Emitting Diode).
VERIFY-Modus All functions or modes of the PRIMO are shown in capital
letters in normal print.
Figure icon Letter Character name
in the LCD in the instructions international deutsch
NEW GAME
[E2 E4]
{ Comments }
—>
In the text and in the input examples, the designations for
the operating keys are always written in capital letters and
in bold type .
All LCD displays are enclosed in square brackets and
printed in bold in this manual.
All required comments within the input examples are set in
curly brackets and, in contrast to the key inputs and the
LCD displays, are shown in normal type.
These arrows are used in the input examples to separate the
individual commands and LCD displays.
The following abbreviations are used to designate the chess pieces in the PRIMO
LCD display: 1 = 4 digit display
2 color label
3 = Sign for captured piece
4 —Separation for times
5 = Sign for En Passant
8 = Computer calculates
9 = Sign for VERIFY function
Informations-LCD
6 = Signs for draws and stalemate
7 = Sign for check / checkmate
10 = Character for SET UP function
II III

We congratulate Imen on the purchase of the NOVAG PRIMO and hope that with it
you have found a chess computer for many enjoyable hours. The PRIMO will be an
ideal chess partner for the advanced player and a patient chess master for the
beginner. For beginners, we recommend that you first familiarize yourself with the
rules of chess. Specialist shops have a comprehensive range of relevant chess
literature ready for you. If in doubt, the PRIMO will show you how to move the
pieces and make extensive move suggestions.
The PRIMO is a chess computer with a strong and extensive program and a diverse
and interesting technical equipment in this price range, which makes working with
this chess computer interesting and instructive.
It is essential that you read these operating instructions carefully before using the
chess computer and in cases of doubt. The NOVAG customer service station is
entitled to charge processing fees for chess computers that are sent to the respective
NOVAG customer service station because the operating instructions have not been
read properly. The operating instructions are structured in such a way that each
section can be read individually if required. The required references to
supplementary sections are given in each case.
We have tried to write this manual as carefully as possible. Nevertheless, it is
possible that something has been overlooked in the abundance of functions. We
would be delighted if you let us know your suggestions so that we can take them into
account in future manuals.
1

I. Quick start Guide 6. Step With this preset you play with the white pieces against the
PRIMO. To make the first move (e.g. c2e4), press the pawn lightly on
the e2 square (FROM square) and place it with light pressure on the e4
1. Step
2. Step
3. Step
4. Step
5. Step
To insert the batteries, open the flap on the underside of the chess
computer and insert the batteries according to the engraved polarity.
Only use leak-proof alkaline batteries. They increase operational
reliability and enable a playing time of approx. 100 hours.
To operate with the adapter, plug the cable of the NOVAG adapter
item no. 8210 into the socket on the back of the chess computer and
connect the adapter to the socket.
Switch on the chess computer with the on/off switch on the back of
the chess computer. When the batteries are inserted and the adapter is
connected, the chess computer is powered exclusively by the adapter
and no battery power is consumed.
After switching on the chess computer, press the NEW GAME button
to delete any game information that may have been saved. When [ - - -
-} appears on the LCD, the PRIMO is ready to play. Place the figures
in the basic position on the playing field without any pressure. The
black pieces are on rows 7 and 8, the white pieces on rows 1 and 2.
To set the desired level, press the SET LEVEL button and the LCD
will show the default level (e.g. [ LE 1 ]). To change the level, you can
press the SET LEVEL button repeatedly until the desired level appears
on the LCD, or press one of the squares with a character or your finger.
The PRIMO has 44 game levels (from a1, a2, a3 etc. to f4 each field
corresponds to a game level), so it is advisable to set the game level by
pressing the fields (see under 2. SET LEVEL).
Press the GO button to exit the SET LEVEL setting mode.
7. Step
square (TO square). The coordinate LEDs of the fields light up, with
this the computer confirms that it has registered your move. If the
move is accepted, i.e. it is a legal move, the PRIMO immediately
begins to calculate its countermove. After entering your first move, the
LCD will show [ E2 E 4 ].
When the PRIMO has calculated the answer move, it appears in the
LCD [ C7 C6 ] and at the same time the coordinate LEDs for the c7
field light up. Execute the computer's countermove by pressing lightly
on the c6 square and the c6 square's coordinate LEDs will light up to
show you where to press the piece. If the coordinate LEDs of a field on
which one of your pieces is standing light up when the computer
moves, then this piece should be beaten. Remove the captured piece
from the field without pressure. In the LCD the capturing of a piece is
indicated by a small "x" between the field indications. As long as the
computer is calculating a countermove, [COMP] appears at the bottom
of the LCD,
2 3

II. Game features
The descriptions in this chapter cover the general game functions. A supplementary
description can be found in Chapter HI. under the respective function key.
Set game level
When the LCD shows [ - * • - ], the PRIMO is ready to play. Before you make your
first move, you should set the level you want to play at. For the first game it is, in our
opinion, perfectly sufficient if you set level 1 (you can find a precise list of the game
levels in the table of game levels on page 10). You can access the function for setting
the playing level by pressing the SET LEVEL button. Proceed as follows:
Input: SET LEVEL —> [ LE 2 ] —> { Setting the game level
by pressing the tumi on al }—> [ LE 1] —> GO
Explanation:By pressing the SET LEVEL button you select the setting function for the
game levels and the set game level appears on the LCD, in this example level 2. Since
the PRIMO has 44 game levels, you would have to press the SET LEVEL button 43
times to to reach level 1 - that is unreasonable. Therefore you press with a character or
your finger on the desired field to select the level to be set (see page 9).
The selected level appears in the LCD. If you have pressed a wrong field, you can
repeat the entry as often as you like. The input function is terminated with the GO
button and the last displayed level is saved.
Executing moves
The PRIMO has a modern SENSOR playing field, which enables direct move input on
the chessboard and greatly simplifies the execution of moves. With each move, first
press the square from which the piece is to be moved, place the piece on the desired
square and press this square again. When you press the FROM field, the coordinate
LEDs of this field light up and the coordinates of the appear in the LCD
FROM field. When the figure is placed on the TO field, the coordinate LEDs of this
field light up briefly to confirm this and the coordinates of the complete train appear in
the LCD. The PRIMO begins to calculate the return move. While the PRIMO is
calculating its countermove, the various information displays appear (a detailed
description of the individual displays can be found under 12. INFO).
Once the PRIMO has calculated its return move, the FROM field coordinate LEDs
will light up and the coordinates of the FROM and TO fields will be displayed on the
LCD. Execute the move of the PRIMO by pressing on the FROM field - the coordinate
LEDs of the TO field light up - place the figure with pressure on the indicated field.
Hitting figures
As soon as a piece is to be captured, remove this piece from the field without pressure
and place the capturing piece on this field with pressure. When the computer wants to
move a piece onto a square containing a piece, it is indicating that that piece is to be
captured. At the same time, a small ”x " appears in the LCD between the coordinates
of the train.
Unauthorized moves
The PRIMO displays all illegal moves with [ ERR ] in the LCD. The display then
jumps back to the starting field. (e.g. [ G 1 ]). You can correct your incorrect entry by
moving the same piece to another, legal square. If you want to move another piece, put
the piece back by pressing on the gl field and make another move.
Correcting a moves
If, after setting your piece, you find that you have made a mistake, then you can
correct this move as follows. Retrieve the computer's next move via GO and execute it
in the usual way. Now press the TRACE BACK button and trace the computer's trace
as it is displayed. Then press the TRACE BACK button again and reverse your
unfavorable move. Now you can make another move that is more favorable for you..
4 5

If a piece was captured in one of the withdrawn pieces and must be played again, the
coordinate LEDs of the field in question light up and the LCD shows which piece it is
(e.g. [ PG 3 ] means that on the square g3 is a pawn to place (the color of the pawn is
indicated by the color icons at the bottom of the LCD.)
The computer calculates
While the computer is calculating a countermove, [ COMP ] flashes at the bottom of
the LCD and all function keys cannot be operated. This does not apply to the NEW
GAME and GO buttons.
Castling
According to international chess rules, when castling, the king must always be moved
first, followed by the rook. The coordinate LEDs will light up prompting you to make
the moves in the correct order as soon as you have moved the king two squares to the
right or left (castling short or long). Do the same thing when castling for the computer.
En Passant
If you or the chess computer capture En Passant, please don't forget to remove the
captured pawn. The captured pawn is indicated by the coordinate LEDs and must be
removed with pressure. If you are unfamiliar with en passant, you should read about it
in chess literature. When the computer hits En Passant, [ ep ] appears in the center of
the LCD.
Pawn promotion
As soon as a direr pawn reaches the opponent's base line, the PRIMO asks you on the
LCD by displaying [PR O ? ] which piece you want to promote your pawn into. Press
the character key in the left row of keys that shows the desired character symbol.
When the computer wants to promote one of its pawns, it shows a letter in the LCD
for the type of piece and the coordinates of the square
on which he might have placed this piece. Complete the move by putting the desired
piece on the indicated square with pressure. If you have overlooked the display on the
LCD, you can use the VERIFY function to check at any time which character was
selected by the computer during the conversion (see under 9. VERIFY).
Remis - Patt
A stalemate is indicated on the LCD by the label [ D ST = ]. The PRIMO claims a
draw in the LCD, stating what type of draw it is. The display is as follows according to
the rules of the international chess federation:
[ d 3 = ] Draw by repeating the move 3 times [ d 50 = ]
Draw according to the 50-move rule
Chess / Checkmate
A check bid is indicated by a cross [ + ] on the right side of the LCD and you are not
allowed to leave your king in check.
Checkmate is indicated in the LCD with [ MATE 4 ].
Task of the game
If the PRIMO is of the opinion that he is in a hopeless situation, he offers to give up
the game. [ RE SN ] appears on the LCD. Despite the computer giving up the game,
you can play the game to the end. If the computer offers to give up the game in
automatic play (see under 18. AUTOPLAY), the automatic process is interrupted. To
continue the game, you must restart the AUTOPLAY function.
Dcr PRIMO offers the task of the game only 1 time during a game.
7
6

1. Function of the control buttons
2. NEW GAME
By pressing the NEW GAME button, all stored information is deleted and the figures
in the computer memory are reset. Accordingly, you must set up your figures again in
the basic position. The NEW GAME button can be pressed at any time, but in any case
before starting a new game.
After pressing NEW GAME, the previously set game level is retained. If the previous
game was played in EASY mode, it must be set again.
3. SET LEVEL
The PRIMO has 44 levels of play in order to be able to optimally adapt its playing
strength to the skill of every chess player and to be able to fully exploit the possibilities
of this chess computer in the area of analysis.
There are 2 ways to select a level:
*By repeatedly pressing the SET LEVEL button.
Input: SET LEVEL —> SET LEVEL SET LEVEL { usw.
until the desired level is reached } —> GO
*By pressing the fields a1, a2, a3 etc. up to f4 the game levels can be selected
directly.
Input: SET LEVEL —> { press the desired field } —> GO
The first method is only recommended if you want to raise the set level by one or a
few levels. The second method is highly recommended in most cases. The following
drawing shows you which field you use to enter the individual game levels.
The level can be changed at any time before or during a game, provided the computer
is not calculating and it is your turn.
The levels of play on the chess board
A B C D E F G H
Tournament Levels
At game levels 1-8, the moves are given, which are to be executed in a certain time.
These levels of play correspond to the conditions of tournament play, in which 40
moves usually have to be played within 2 hours. If a player exceeds the allotted time
before completing the required number of moves, the game is lost for him.
Fixed game levels
Levels 9 -16 have a fixed computing time per turn. If, in a certain game situation, there
is no other option than to make a specific move, then this move is dealt with
immediately.
89

Blitz and special game levels
At game levels 17 - 24, the PRIMO adjusts its computing times in such a way that
it finishes the entire game within the specified time.
Depth of play levels
Levels 25-44 are extraordinarily important for long-term analysis, if you want to
determine how many half-moves a certain solution is found in, or which solution is
found after so many moves in a problem that is not a checkmate problem. The
highest possible arithmetic depth that can be set is 20 half-moves at level 44.
For storage reasons, the PRIMO program could not accept any complaints about
the time being exceeded. Use the information display to see how game time is
progressing.
Level table
level
Description
Time
level
Description
Time
I
60
60
60
45
40
40
40
40
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
game in
game in
game in
game in
game in
game in
5 min
23
game in
90 min
2
30 min
24
game in
120 min
3
60 min
25
Calc. depth
1 half move
4
90 min
26
Calc. depth
2 half move
5
90 min
27
Calc. depth
3 half move
6
100 min
28
Calc. depth
4 half move
7
2 Std
29
Calc. depth
5 half move
8
2.5 Std
30
Calc. depth
6 half move
9
2 sec
31
Calc. depth
7 half move
10
5 sec
32
Calc. depth
8 half move
11
10 sec
33
Calc. depth
9 half move
12
15 sec
34
Calc. depth
10 half move
13
30 sec
35
Calc. depth
11 half move
14
1 min
36
Calc. depth
12 half move
15
2 min
37
Calc. depth
13 half move
16
3 min
38
Calc. depth
14 half move
17
3 min
39
Calc. depth
15 half move
18
5 min
40
Calc. depth
16 half move
19
10 min
41
Calc. depth
17 half move
20
15 min
42
Calc. depth
18 half move
21
30 min
43
Calc. depth
19 half move
22
60 min
44
Calc. depth
20 half move e
The PRIMO chess program uses the player's thinking time for the constant analysis of
the further development of the game, whereby the opposite moves to be expected are
taken into account in the computer calculations. In order to give the weaker player a
chance against the PRIMO, the EASY function was installed, in which the computing
time of the computer is switched off during the opponent's thinking time (see under 17.
EASY).
4. GO
The GO button is used individually or together with other function buttons. You could
call it an execute, command, or return key. In cases where there is a malfunction,
people often forget to press the GO button.
The main functions of the GO button:
* Prompts the chess computer to calculate the next move for the color to move.
10 11

4. RANDOM 6. HINT
*Prompts the computer as it calculates a countermove up to
*best calculated at this point in time
*Spend the move immediately.
*Completes the following functions VERIFY
SETUP SET
LEVEL
*Exits the AUTOPLAY function
Starlet the Mate Search (SOLVE MATE)
It may be interesting to let the computer play against itself at a certain score or to learn
how to play chess. In this case, call up the next move for both sides by pressing the GO
key.
If the GO button is pressed while a move is being calculated before the computer
displays the move, the most favorable move calculated up to that point is displayed
immediately. The result of the calculation of such moves does not correspond to the set
game level due to the cancellation with the GO button.
12 13

13
13
4. RANDOM 6. HINT
Chess programs are designed to calculate and compare possible moves. The move
with the highest score is chosen as the answer move. The quality of a move
calculation depends on the respective calculation depth (higher level means greater
calculation depth). Under certain conditions, the choice of the strongest move as a
reply move does not always result in a varied game.
When you turn on the computer, the move with the highest score is automatically
chosen as the answer move. This only applies to moves outside the opening library.
To turn on the PRIMO's random generator, press the RANDOM button. When the
random generator is on, the computer chooses a high-scoring move as the answer
move, but not necessarily the highest-scoring move. The random number generator is
switched off again by pressing the RANDOM button again.
5. REFEREE (referee function)
If the REFEREE function is switched on, the chess computer does not calculate any
moves unless you expressly request it to do so by pressing the GO key. With this
function you can play or enter a complete game, whereby the computer only checks
the legality of all entries (= moves). You can also switch on the REFEREE function
at any time during a game when it is your turn and the computer is not calculating a
move.
The following functions work when the REFEREE function is switched on:
(withdrawal)
(Color change before beginning input) (move suggestions)
(Entering game positions) (position control)
(Turn sound on and off)
*TRACE BACK
*COLOR
*HINT
*SETUP
*VERIFY
*SOUND
To learn how to play chess and in particularly difficult situations, you can have the
PRIMO display a suggested move. After pressing the HINT button, the display of the
suggested move appears in the LCD for about 2 seconds. As a rule, this is the move
that the computer predicts to be the strongest countermove and is shown in the
information display during its move calculation (see under 12. INFO). Regardless of
the move suggested by the computer, you can choose any answer move you like.
7. TRACE BACK { withdrawal)
If you find that you have made a weak move, i.e. one that is unfavorable for you, and
want to correct it or adopt a different strategy, you can take back up to 50 moves (=
100 half-moves) with the PRIMO. If you have changed the piece positions with the
SET UP function, then all moves before the change are deleted and you can only use
TRACE BACK to take the moves back up to this position.
The move can only be taken back if it is your turn and the computer is not
calculating a move. After pressing the TRACE BACK button, the computer displays
on the LCD and via the coordinate LEDs which piece is to be taken back from which
field to which field and which captured piece is to be used on which field.
All moves taken back with TRACE BACK remain in the computer's move memory
until you request the PRIMO to calculate the next move with the GO button. As long
as the moves are still saved, you can use the TRACE FORWARD and TRACE
BACK buttons to play the game forwards and backwards until you have found the
point you want from where you want to continue playing the game. This function of
the chess computer is a valuable aid for learning purposes.
8. COLOR (Change of character color)
The COLOR button has 3 different functions:
*In the VERIFY and SET UP modes you can change the color of the figures to be
checked or added.
14 15

14
IS
*If you press this button before the game starts (but in any case after the NEW
GAME button), the position of the pieces in the position memory will be changed.
You must now place the black pieces on rows 1 and 2 and the white pieces on
rows 7 and 8. Usually this function of the COLOR button is used when playing
with the black pieces. To start the game (the computer should start with white)
press the GO button. Note that the coordinates printed on the edge of the playing
field are no longer valid. However, the correct coordinates appear on the LCD.
*If the COLOR button is pressed during the game (only possible if the computer is
not calculating), the right of suit changes from white to black or vice versa. This
form of color change erases all previous moves. If you try to take back a move
using TRACE BACK, [ BE G ] will appear on the LCD for the beginning,
indicating that the computer is at the beginning of the game and cannot take
another move back.
If you want to take over the game from the computer, it is not necessary to press the
COLOR button. Instead of your next move, press the GO button to have the computer
start calculating for your side.
If you repeat pressing the GO button instead of entering a move, the computer plays
against itself and you can play a game and only place the pieces for the computer.
This allows you to follow games more easily than is the case with the AUTOPLAY
function.
9. VERIFY (Check figure position)
The VERIFY button has a dual function. After pressing this button you are in
VERIFY mode. The LCD shows [ VE R ] and additionally at the bottom edge [
VERIFY ]. If you press the button again, you are in the SET UP mode, which is
indicated on the LCD by [ SE T ] and also at the bottom with [ SETUP ]. Each time
the button is pressed again, you switch between the two functions. To exit VERIFY
and SET UP mode, press the GO button.
With the VERIFY function you can check which pieces are on which squares. In any
case, once you have entered a particular position with the SET UP function, you
should check the positions of the pieces before you give the computer a task for
lengthy analysis. If the computer has converted a pawn and you have not checked the
LCD display, you can use VERIFY to check which figure the pawn was converted
into.
There are two ways to check the figures. In the first, the characters are queried by
pressing a button. Once you are in VERIFY mode and press a button labeled with a
character icon, all characters of the same character type and color are displayed via
the LCD and coordinate LEDs. If there is no or no other piece of the type checked on
the playing field, [ NO NE ] appears in the LCD. With the COLOR button you can
change the color of the figure.
With the second possibility you can press with your finger or a figure on a field. If
there is no figure on the field, only the coordinates of the field are displayed on the
LCD. In the other case, the code letter for the piece and the color of the piece. With
this form of query it is not necessary to press the COLOR button.
10. SETUP (Enter game positions)
The SET UP function is an interesting feature of the PRIMO and allows women a
varied and instructive occupation with the chess computer far beyond the scope of the
usual chess game. In SET UP mode, you can remove, insert, or move characters from
the game. The playing positions entered or changed via the SET UP mode can be used
in a number of ways. You can play the game yourself against the computer, have it
analyzed by the computer, calculate the position as checkmate or have the computer
play the game to the end with the AUTOPLAY function.
All legal game positions can be entered. However, the PRIMO does not allow the
entry of impossible positions. This includes e.g. 9 pawns, pawns on the opposing base
line, several kings of the same color or no king.
16 17

16
17
Insertion of figures
Enter SET UP mode by pressing the VERIFY/SET UP button twice. Before placing
pieces, you must select the piece color and type to be used. The color is selected using
the COLOR button, the type of figure is selected using the buttons with the figure
symbols. After switching on the SET UP mode, the default color is white and the
character type is a farmer. Once you have made this pre-selection, you only have to
place the corresponding piece on the desired field with slight pressure. Several figures
of the same type and color can be used one after the other. Pressing the GO key or
switching to VERIFY mode completes the entry.
If a complete game position is to be entered (e.g. to solve a checkmate problem or to
analyze a position), then it is usually necessary to remove all the pieces on the board
before entering. The figures are deleted from the computer memory by pressing the
CLEAR BOARD button. It is a common mistake when entering a game position to
forget to press the CLEAR BOARD key to erase the previous position.
Use the VERIFY function to check whether the figures were actually used.
10-2 Removing Figures
Once you are in SET UP mode, a piece is removed from play by pressure removing
that piece from the board. Any number of figures can be removed from the game in
this way. Pressing the GO button or switching to VERIFY mode completes removing
figures.
Use the VERIFY function to verify that the pieces have actually been removed from
the board.
10-3 Porch of figures
Once in SET UP mode, you can move any piece on the board simply by pressing the
desired piece off one square and pressing it onto another square. Pressing the GO key
or switching to the VERIFY function completes the moving of figures.
Use the VERIFY function to verify that the piece is actually on the new square.
You can of course insert, remove and move figures one after the other without having
to exit SET UP mode.
11. CLEAR / CLEAR BOARD (Figures on the Idzhen playing field)
If you want to enter a game position, it makes sense to first remove idle pieces from
the board and delete them from the position memory of the PRIMO before you set
them up and enter them again. As described under 10. SET UP, the figures in the
position memory of the PRIMO are deleted with the CLEAR BOARD key. To
confirm the button operation, the LCD shows [ CL R ].
12. INFO (information display)
While the computer is calculating a countermove, a series of game information
appears on the LCD, making the game of the chess computer more transparent and
instructive for the interested player. The information is displayed automatically and
can be constantly observed.
When it is your turn, you can use the INFO button to call up the most important
information about the current status of the game.
12.1 Automatic INFO • display (while the computer calculates)
1. Display of the total time spent for the color currently on the train.
example: (02 :27 ] 2 minutes and 27 seconds
Display of the countermove calculated so far
example: [B8C6] Computerintends this move
Display of the expected countermove
example: [Cl E3] on move b8 c6 the computer expects cl e3
Display of the next move
example: [C5B4] on move cl e3 the computer proposed c5 b4-see
18 19

22
23
Display of the evaluation of the position for the color currently on the move
example: [ -0 03 ] Rating - 0 03 means one
Disadvantage of 0.03 building units for the active color. Positive position
evaluations do not have a minus sign
.
Display of the current ridge depth
example: [ d 5 ) The computer already has 5 half-moves ahead -
breaks out.
Display of the calculated variants and the total variants
example: [39 43 ] The computer indicates that it has 39 left
Calculate 43 variants.
12.2 INFO - Get ads (while the computer doesn't look)
By pressing the INFO button, the information below can be displayed retrieved when
it is your turn and the computer does not make a countermove calculated.
1. Display of the position evaluation (press the INFO button once)
example : [ SC R ] This display means that the display of the
Position evaluation is active. After about 1
second the rating appears.
[ 0 05 ] Position rating 0 05 means an advantage of 0,05
Building units for the color currently on the
move. Disadvantageous position evaluations
have a minus sign.
Display of the total time spent for the color in question (press the INFO button
twice or again if the position evaluation was previously displayed)
example : [ TO T ] This display means that the display of the
total time is active. After approx. 1 second the
time appears.
[ 08 :13 ] Shows the total time for the side indicated by the
color sign at the bottom.
2. Display of the total time used for the opposite side (press the INFO button 3
times or again if the previous display was active)
example: [ TO T ] This display means that the display of the
total time the remote site is active. After approx.
1 second the time appears.
[ 09 :14 ] Shows the total time for the side indicated by the
color sign at the bottom.
3. Display of the current number of moves (press the INFO button 4 times or again
if the previous display was active)
example: [ CN T ] This display means that the display of the
current number of moves is active. After approx.
1 second the number of moves appears.
[12 ] In this game the 12th move is played.
The INFO displays are cleared by pressing the CLEAR button.
13. RESTORE (Pulling back to the starting position)
By pressing the RESTORE button, the current game is reset to its original position.
In a normal game, this would mean taking back all moves. The RESTORE function is
of particular importance if a playing position has been entered via SET UP for
analysis. After the analysis has been completed, the game is returned to its original
position with RESTORE and the analysis can then be repeated at a higher level.
After pressing the RESTORE button, [BE G J appears in the LCD. When you press
the GO button or start the analysis with the AUTOPLAY function, the computer
begins its calculations, which you can follow on the information display. If the
computer starts calculating a few moves further, it is possible to use the TRACE
FORWARD function to play the game a few moves further without the computer
recalculating the moves.
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14. TRACE FORWARD (Retrieving stored moves)
As explained in the previous section, you can use the RESTORE function to return a
saved game to its original position or use the TRACE BACK key to take moves back.
The TRACE FORWARD function is provided so that moves that have been taken
back can be called up again forwards without the computer recalculating the moves
that have already been calculated. When all calculated moves are displayed and there
are no more in the computer's memory, [ EN D ] appears on the LCD. From this or
any other steep point you can ask the computer to calculate further or new moves with
GO or AUTO PLAY.
15. SOUND (Turn sound on and off)
The acoustic signals of the chess computer can be switched on and off with the
SOUND button. If the chess computer has calculated a move, a tone will sound in any
case, which cannot be switched off.
16. SOLVE MATE (Solving chess problems)
The PRIMO can solve chess problems from mate-in-1 to mate-in-8. Castling, en
passant moves and all pawn promotions can be included in these mate problems.
However, solving mating tasks with higher numbers of moves can take a very long
time. However, this is not caused by the PRIMO, but by the enormously high number
of calculations that have to be carried out with such checkmate problems. Always
remember that no chess computer is able to find all checkmate solutions within its
solution possibilities.
Before starting the SOLVE MATE function, you must first enter the starting position
via SET UP. Before you start the mate search, it is advisable to use VERIFY to check
the correctness of the game position entered.
Entering the desired mate can be done by pressing the SOLVE MATE key multiple
times, or by pressing a square on rows 1 through 8, where row 1 squares are a mate-
in-1, row 2 squares are a mate-in-1. in-2 and so on. As soon as the display of the matt
to be set appears on the LCD
(e.g. with Matt-in-5 [n 5 ]), you can use the mate search with the
Start GO button. The computer then looks for a mate-in-5 or shorter. If it does not
find a solution, [ NO NE ] appears on the LCD. If he finds the solution, he shows the
key move. You can make any legal countermove and the computer will checkmate
you in the given number of moves.
17. EASY (Decreasing game strength)
The PRIMO uses the opponent's thinking time to calculate the further course of the
game, whereby he already includes the countermoves to be expected in his
calculations. By pressing the EASY button, the calculations of the computer can be
switched on or off during the opposing team's thinking time. After pressing the NEW
GAME button, EASY mode is switched off even if it was switched on during the
previous game. Especially for the beginner or weaker player, the EASY mode offers
another possibility to reduce the playing strength of the PRIMO.
18. AUTOPLAY (automatic gameplay)
The PRIMO's AUTOPLAY function offers an excellent opportunity for the computer
to independently analyze a game or game position. This is particularly useful when
analyzing at a higher level over a longer period of time. Enter SET LEVEL —> { to
set the game level } —> AUTOPLAY starts the
automatic gameplay. While the game is running automatically, the moves and the
game information are displayed via the coordinate LEDs and the LCD. However, the
figures do not have to be dragged along. The AUTOPLAY function is aborted by
pressing the GO key and the computer plays the next move, the result of which does
not have to correspond to the set playing level.
The AUTOPLAY function is not very suitable for following the computer's chess
game in all its details and learning from it. For this purpose, the individual moves are
called up for both sides with the GO button.
The result of the automatic analysis can be displayed by taking the moves back with
the TRACE BACK key and using them
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2. Letters and special characters
3.
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TRACE FORWARD can be displayed again or you can use the RESTORE button to
take back all the moves and have them displayed with TRACE FORWARD.
19. NEXT BEST (look for another move or side solution)
This function can be used in different ways. During normal play, one can ask the
computer to calculate another answer move, but usually similar or less powerful than
the move indicated. When solving a mate problem, the computer can be asked to look
for a secondary solution if the mate problem is designed in such a way that various
moves can lead to mate.
19.1 NEXT BEST- Function in normal game
If you want the computer to calculate a different move instead of its last move in a
running game, you can do this by entering: SET LEVEL —> NEXT BEST. The LCD
shows [ AL T ] for alternative move. The computer then uses the coordinate LEDs
and the LCD to indicate how the last move is to be taken back. If you take the move
back as indicated (possibly captured pieces must be reinserted), the computer
immediately starts calculating the alternative move, which it displays as usual after
the calculation has been completed.
19.2 NEXT BEST- Function in checkmate tasks
If you are of the opinion that a checkmate problem contains a secondary solution,
then you can ask the PRIMO to look for it. First perform the calculated key move of
the mate problem and then type SET LEVEL —> NEXT BEST. The following
procedure corresponds to that described under 16.1.
LCD- display of PRIMO
The LCD of the PRIMO has a 4-digit segment display where not all digits and letters
can be shown in the usual form. The characters compiled below are used in the
information LCD of the PRIMO:
1. Digits
Information display examples
The most important displays of the PRIMO are explained on the basis of the
following examples.
As soon as this display appears, the PRIMO is ready to play and awaits the input of
your first move.
Display after entering the first half move.
Display after entering dc's first move.
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Display of the computer countermove.
INFO display: Total time used
for black while the computer calculates.
INFO display: Calculated by the computer
nice return.
INFO display: This move is expected by the
computer on b8 c6.
INFO display: On cl e3 the
Computers respond with this move.
INFO display: position evaluation for
the color of the train.
INFO display: Display of already
calculated half-moves.
INFO display: From 43 variants are
still 39 to calculate.
The computer indicates that level 4 is
selected.
INFO display: The display of the move
evaluation is selected and appears after
approx. 1 second.
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INFO display: Display of the tensile
direction for the color located in the sun.
INFO display: The display of the total time
used for Wifi is selected and appears after
approx. 1 second.
INFO display: Display of consumption
th total time for whites.
INFO display: The display of the total time
used for black is selected and appears after
approx. 1 second.
INFO display: Display of consumption
th total time for Black.
INFO display: The display of the number of
moves is selected and appears after approx. 1
second.
INFO display: Display of the number of
moves
When Black moves c5 x d4, the piece is
captured on d4.
If an incorrect entry is made, an error is
displayed with ERROR.
The computer gives up its game.
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Dicsc display means stalemate.
The AUTOPLAY function is switched on (the 3
dashes on top of each other mean "on ").
Indication of a draw with 3 repetitions of
moves.
Indication of a draw according to the 50-
move rule.
Wild Checkmate is displayed as the game
result.
The VERIFY function for checking the
pieces on the board is activated.
The SET UP function for placing, removing
and moving pieces is activated.
Pressing the CLEAR BOARD button is
confirmed.
With the SET UP function, a black turn is
entered on the a8 square.
A mate-in-4 was entered using the SOLVE
MATE function.
The referee function was
REFEREE button on.
The SOUND is switched off.
The RANDOM function is switched on.
EASY mode is switched on.
The computer asks which piece the pawn
should be converted into.
Display that the game was set at the
beginning of the position with the
RESTORE key.
The last move of the game has been played,
no more moves are stored in the move
memory.
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IV. Attachment
Maintenance of the chess computer
Dust and dirt can be removed with a soft cloth. Under no circumstances should the
PRIMO come into contact with chemical cleaning agents, spirits or petrol.
The PRIMO should be kept dry and at room temperature. Avoid storing and playing
in direct sunlight, under strong room radiators or near radiators. Failures due to
improper handling, the use of force or the use of third-party adapters are not covered
by the warranty claims.
Guarantee
The computer comes with a 6-month warranty from the date of purchase. Lbr
warranty claims can be found on the enclosed warranty card, which must accompany
this chess computer. When purchasing, make sure that your warranty card is properly
filled out.
Warranty repairs and repairs after the warranty period has expired are carried out
properly by the NOVAG customer service station specified on the warranty card,
using NOVAG original spare parts. Enclose a precise error description with your
chess computer. They make the work of the customer service technician easier and
avoid sending in your chess computer multiple times if the error is not obvious.
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Operation problems
The NOVAG PRIMO was subject to strict quality control during manufacture -
troll to ensure proper functioning. If at the service - If you encounter any problems,
check the points and below the operating instructions to determine whether an
operating error has occurred.
The chess computer does not play:
If your NOVAG PRIMO does not play, it can be for the following reasons:
*If you play with batteries, they may be dead or inserted incorrectly. Replace the
batteries and insert them according to the polarity marked on the bottom of the
battery compartment. Never mix old and new batteries and only use alkaline
batteries.
*Only use the adapter specified by your specialist retailer (NOVAG item no.
8210). If you use other adapters, your guarantee will become void.
*Check whether the adapter plug is firmly seated in the socket and in the chess
computer socket. The slightest interruption leads to the breakdown of the chess
computer.
*Check whether the voltage of your mains supply agrees with the information on
the adapter. Voltage fluctuations of more than 10% can lead to malfunctions.
*Try if your chess computer works if you plug it into a different outlet.
*If your chess computer runs on batteries, the problem is with the adapter or its
connection cable.
The flashing frequency of the LEDs has decreased:
*The battery power is no longer sufficient for proper operation of the chess
computer.
All LEDs light up when you shadow the chess computer. The chess computer is
blocked and accepts no input:
*Slowly turn your chess computer on and off several times. In most cases
blockages can be resolved with this measure.
*If the computer still does not work, check the power supply.
Each device is equipped with a RESET switch. If the above measures are
unsuccessful, use this RESET switch and proceed as follows:
*Turn off the device completely.
*There is a hole on the back on the right edge of the nameplate, above which is the
inscription ACL.
*This switch must be pressed for 5 seconds using a pen (pencil, ballpoint pen).
*The computer is now operational again.
If none of these measures are successful, please contact the NOVAG customer
service station specified on the guarantee card.
An LED does not light up:
Go into VERIFY mode and check the coordinate LEDs by pressing the al through hi
boxes. If the corresponding LED does not light up, please send the computer to a
NOVAG customer service station.
A square does not register a move:
Go into VERIFY mode to check whether the corresponding field is free or already
occupied. If the computer registered a piece in this square, you tried to enter an
illegal move or made an incorrect entry.
If the field does not register the print with the figure at all, the sensor foil is damaged
and should be replaced by the NOVAG customer service station.
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