Saitek Cosmos Kasparov User manual

M
Instructions

QUICK START
1
To play a game right away, without reading the entire manual first, simply follow these Quick Start steps!
Open the batterycover in
the base ofthe unit,slide
the batterydoor inthe
direction of arrow to open
it, and insert four"AA"
(AM3/R6) alkaline
batteries.Makesure to
observe the correct
polarity!Reinstall the
batterydoor.
Press GO/STOP to turn
the computer on.Ifthe
unit doesn'trespond,reset
it as noted in Section 7.1.
Set upthe chesspieces in
the initial starting position
with the Whitepieces
closest to you, as shown
in thisdiagram.
Press NEW GAME to
reset the computer fora
new game of chess.
abode f g h
Enter moves by making
them onthe board,
pressing the pegged
chesspiecesdowngently
into the holes ofthe from
andto squares for each
move.
"1-CC
B*
C "1
J^
As soon asthe computer
makes a move, its move
is shown inthe display
window. Two boardlights
alsocome on, pointing to
therowand column ofthe
piece tobe moved.Press
the computer'spiecedown onthe indicated from andto
squares to complete the computer's move. That's it!
Makeyournextmove as describedabove.Enjoyyour
game!
Press GO/STOP at any time to turn the computer off.
Your current position and game (up to 50 individual N
moves) will be stored in the computer's memory. When
you switch back on again, you can continue playing right
whefe you left off!

KEYS AND FEATURES
1. PIECE STORAGE AREA: For piece storage and captured pieces.
2. BATTERY COMPARTMENT: In base of unit. Uses four "AA"
(AM3/R6) alkaline batteries.
3. SENSORY CHESSBOARD: Each square contains a sensor that
automatically registers piece movement. Certain squares can also
be pressed to select playing levels and game options.
4. DISPLAY WINDOW: Used to show moves and move information
during a game. Also used for level and option selection, piece
verification, position set-up, and more.
5. GAME KEYS
9
LEVEL: Press to enter Level Mode; within Level Mode, press to
skip over eight levels ata time.
• OPTION: Press to enter Option Mode; within Option Mode,
press to cycle through the main option groups.
• INFO: Press to enter Info Mode; within Info Mode, press to cycle
through the main info groups. Press during your move to request
a hint.
• PIECE SYMBOL KEYS: Used in Verify and Position Modes.
Also used for pawn promotions.
e
CLEAR: Press to exit Option, Verify, and Position Modes. Press
to clear Info Displays and cancel Clear Board requests in
Position Mode. Press to cancel Level Mode ifyou decide notto
make changes (unless you have pressed board squares to
change levels).
• ENTER: Press to change sides with the computer, and press
while the computer is thinking to force itto move. Press to turn
Option settings onand off, to select Bronstein Clock settings,
andto exit Level Mode with your new playing level selected.
Press to clear the board in Position Mode, then press again to
confirm.
• WHITE/- and BLACK/+ KEYS: Press to change levels oneata
time in Level Mode, andto cycle through options in Option and
Info Modes. Also used tosetthe color in Position Mode.
• TAKE BACK: Press to take back an individual move (a move for
either side). Take back uptoa maximum of50 individual moves.
• GO/STOP: Press to turn the unit onand off.
•NEW GAME: Press to reset the computer fora new game of
chess.
• POSITION: Press to enter Position Mode.
6.ACL (Reset): In base of unit. Used to eliminate static discharge after
inserting new batteries. Also resets the computer to default settings.
7. BOARD LIGHTS: Used to show game moves, take back moves, and
verify/set up board positions.
• COVER (not«shown): Protects unit from dust and keeps chess
pieces in place during travel.

TABLE OF CONTENTS
QUICK START
KEYS AND FEATURES
INTRODUCTION
1. LET'S GET STARTED!
1.1 First, Install the Batteries
1.2 Ready to Play? Here's Howto Move!
1.3 Now It's the Computer's Turn
1.4 Change Your Mind? Take Back!
1.5 Game Over? WhyNot Play Again!
1.6 Too Easy/Hard? Change the Level!
2. MORE FEATURES TO EXPLORE
2.1 Whose Move? Check the Display!
2.2 Special Chess Moves
2.3 Illegal Moves
2.4 Check, Mate, and Draw
2.5 Interrupting the Computer's Search
2.6 Changing Sides with the Computer
2.7 Built-in Openings
2.8 Thinking onthe Opponent's Time
2.9 Game Memory
3. THE PLAYING LEVELS
Setting a Playing Level
3.1 Normal Playing Levels (Squares A1-B7)
3.2 Infinite Level (Square B8)
3.3 Tournament Levels (Squares C1-C8)
3.4 Blitz Levels (Squares D1-D8)
3.5 Fun Levels (Squares E1-E8)
3.6 Mate Search Levels (Squares F1-F8)
3.7 Training Levels (Squares G1-G8)
3.8 Self-Adaptive Weak Levels (Squares H1-H8)
4. INFO MODE: WATCH THE COMPUTER THINK!
Using Info Mode
4.1 Principal Variation
4.2 Search Information
4.3 Chess Clock Information
4.4 Move Count/Game Moves
4.5 Want a Hint? Just Ask!
5. OPTIONS FORFUNAND VARIETY
Selecting Game Options
5.1 Operation Mode Options (Squares A1-H1)
5.2 Playing Mode Options (Squares A2-H2)
5.3 Rotating Display Options (Squares A3-H3)
5.4 Bronstein Clock Options (Square A4)
6. VERIFYING/SETTING UP POSITIONS
6.1 Verifying Positions
6.2 Changing and Setting Up Positions
7. TECHNICAL DETAILS
7.1 TheACL Function
7.2 Care and Maintenance
7.3 Technical Specifications
TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE
INTRODUCTION
We'd like to welcome youtothe exciting world of computer chess!
Whether you're just starting to learn about this great game or you're
already a seasoned player, using your new chess computer will give
you the opportunity to discover so much more about chess than you
ever thought possible! Take a look through this manual togetan over-
view of your computer's capabilities—all the special features and
modes, allthe unique options and playing levels. And take advantage of
them over time, oneby one! You'll have great fun—and you'll never look
at chess the same way again!
Your computer knows allthe rules of chess—and it will never cheat!
For those ofyouwho haven't played before, we have included a brief
overview ofthe rules togetyou started. For more detailed information,
why not visit your local library, where you're sure to find lots of interest-
ing chess books!
1. LET'S GET STARTED!
1.1 First, Install the Batteries
Your computer runs on four "AA" (Type AM3/R6) batteries. Insert the
batteries into the compartment inthe base ofthe unit, making sure to
observe the correct polarity. Use fresh alkaline batteries for longer
battery life!
Turn the'computer onby pressing GO/STOP, anda beep will signal
that the game is ready to play. Ifthe computer fails to respond (static

discharge may cause itto lock up), usea paper clip or another sharp
object to press down into the hole marked ACLinthe base ofthe unit
for at least one second. This will reset the computer.
Tip: To conserve energy and extend battery life, turn on the Auto
Power Down option (see Section 5.1).
1.2 Ready to Play? Here's Howto Move!
Okay, now it's time to start a game! It's so easy—just follow these
steps:
a. Press GO/STOP to turn the computer on,ifyou haven't already
done so.
b. Press NEW GAME to reset the computer fora new game of
chess. Setupthe pieces in their starting positions, with the White
pieces nearest to you, as shown inthe Quick Start.
c. To make a move, lightly press down onthe piece you want to
move until you hear a beep andtwo board lights turn onto
indicate that square. The sensory board will recognize your piece
automatically. Don't believe it? Just look atthe display window,
which is suddenly full of information—it shows your piece, along
with the piece color andthe square you just pressed!
d. Take that piece and gently press it down into the hole ofthe
square youare moving to. You'll hear a second beep asthe
computer confirms your move. That's it—you've just made your
first move ofthe game! Next, it's Black's turn—and the computer
will make its first move.
You'll notice that the computer often moves instantly at the beginning
of a game, instead of taking time to think. This is because it is playing
from memory, using a built-in "book" of opening moves (for more
information, see Section 2.7).
1.3 Now It's the Computer's Turn
When the computer makes its move, it beeps and turns ontwo board
lights indicating the square ofthe piece it wants to move. It also shows
its full move inthe display window. Check it out—you'll seethe from
andto squares ofthe computer's move, along with the color and type of
piece itis moving. Notice that the from square is flashing inthe display.
Press the indicated piece down onthe from square until you hear a
beep. Theto square isnow flashing inthe display—move that same
piece tothe indicated to square and press it down to complete the
MAKING THE COMPUTER'S MOVE:
AN EXAMPLE!
After the computer moves, it's uptoyouto make its move onthe
board! Here, the display indicates the computer wants to move its
Black pawn (• A) from d7tod5. Pick upthed7 pawn (indicated
by the board lights) and press it down lightly into the hole on Square
d7.The board lights now point to Square d5. Press the pawn down
into the hole on Square d5to complete the computer's move. Now
it's your turn again!
• A
cH-dS
* g h
computer's move. And it's your turn again...
See "MAKING THE COMPUTER'S MOVE: AN EXAMPLE!" for a
how-to illustration!
By the way, while you're thinking about your next move, notice that
the chess piece symbols are displayed, one by one, counting "up" from
pawn to King. This means the built-in chess clock is in normal mode,
counting your elapsed time. If the Countdown Clock is activated, as
described in Section 5.1, the displayed symbols will reverse direction.
You'll find details on all the chess clock features in Section 4.3!
1.4 Change Your Mind? Take Back!
When you're playing chess against this computer, nothing is "set in
stone"—you,can change your mind or decide to play a different move
whenever you want! When it's your turn to move, simply press TAKE
BACK. The display shows the move tobe taken back, with the original

to square flashing and indicated by board lights. Press the piece down
gently onthe indicated square, andthe computer shows you where that
piece came from by flashing that display and using board lights to point
to that square. Press the piece down onthe from square to complete
the take-back. Repeat this as often as you'd like, taking back upto50
individual moves (or25 moves for each side). To continue playing at
any point, just make another move onthe board!
After taking back a capture, the computer will make sure your board
is still set up correctly by reminding you to put the captured piece back
on the board! It displays the piece symbol, the location, and a "+"
symbol, and turns on the board lights for that square. Put the indicated
piece back on the board and press that square to complete the take-
back.
1.5 Game Over? WhyNot Play Again!
Whenever you finish a game (orifyou give upon your current game),
it's easy to start over again! Reset the computer to start another game
by pressing NEW GAME, anda series of beeps tells youthe computer
is ready. The same playing level will bein effect, butyoucan change itif
you'd like, as explained in Section 3.
IMPORTANT: Pressing NEW GAME clears your current game from
the computer's memory—be careful not to press this key by mistake!
1.6 Too Easy/Hard? Change the Level!
When you first turn your computer on, it's automatically setto Normal
Playing Level A4 (five seconds a move). However, you have 64 different
levels to choose from—you'll want totry them all out! For descriptions of
the playing levels andhowto change levels, see Section 3.
2. MORE FEATURES TO EXPLORE
2.1 Whose Move? Check the Display!
When the computer plays Black, it flashes a black square inthe
display while itis thinking. After ithas moved, a white square shows that
it isnow White's turn to move. Youcan tell ata glance ifthe computer is
currently thinking, and which side isto move!
2.2 Special Chess Moves
Captures: To capture, press down onthe piece you want to move,
NEED HELP CHOOSING A LEVEL?
SOME TIPS FOR YOU!
•Areyoua beginning player? You have lots of choices!
Check outtheFun Levels, the lower Training Levels, orthe
Self-Adaptive Weak Levels. These levels all restrict the
computer's search depth in different ways, resulting in weaker
play and giving youthe chance to learn more about the game
and perhaps even beat the computer occasionally!
•Areyouan intermediate or more advanced player? Trythe
Normal, Training, or Tournament Levels. The Normal Levels
range from easy allthewayuptoa difficult 10-minute re-
sponse time, andthe Tournament Levels are extremely
challenging. And don't forget totrythe Blitz Levels for some
fast and exciting games of Speed Chess! Bythe way, for
Tournament and Blitz Games, youcan activate the built-in
Bronstein Clock, as you'll seein Section 5.4!
• Want to experiment? Usethe Mate Search Levels to solve
problems upto mate in eight—try searching from a position in
oneof your own games, orsetupan actual mate problem.
Choose the Infinite Level to have the computer analyze
complicated positions for hours or even days!
rerrtove the captured piece from the board, and press your piece down
on the square ofthe captured piece. Captures are displayed asin
ESsFH.
En Passant Captures: In this type of capture, the computer reminds
you to remove the captured pawn by displaying the pawn's position,
along with a minus sign, and using two board lights to indicate that
square. Press down onthe captured pawn before removing it from the
board.
Castling: The computer automatically recognizes castling after the
King is moved. After you have pressed the King down onits from and
to squares, the computer uses the display and board lights to remind
you to move the Rook. Press down onthe Rook's from andto squares
to complete the move. Note that Kingside castling is displayed as 0-0,
and Queenside castling as 0-0-0.

Pawn Promotions: When you promote a pawn, first make your
move as usual, pressing your pawn down onits from andto squares.
Next, press the Piece Symbol Keyfor your desired promotion piece (*,
1, A, or *). The computer recognizes your new piece immediately, and
begins thinking about its next move. Remember to change your piece
on the board! When the computer promotes a pawn, the display
shows both the pawn andthe promoted piece. Don't forget to replace
the computer's pawn with itsnew piece.
2.3 Illegal Moves
Your computer will never accept an illegal move! Ifyoutryto make
one, you'll hear a low double beep, andthe board lights and display will
simply continue to show the square the piece came from. Either move
that same piece to another square, or press the piece back down on
the original from square and move a different piece.
If you don't make the computer's move correctly, you'll also getan
error beep. This means youare moving the wrong piece, or moving the
computer's piece tothe wrong square. Ifthe computer wants to move
its pawn from C7toC5,for example, andyou press down onC7and
then C6, the display shows
:CS
briefly, pointing out your error. The
display then returns to showing the move again (C1-CS), andthe
computer expects youto press C5to complete its move.
If you press down ona piece andthe from square is displayed, but
you decide notto make that move, simply press down on that same
square again to cancel. Then make another move. Ifyou change your
mind after entering your whole move, take the move back as described
in Section 1.4.
2.4 Check, Mate, and Draw
When a King isin check, the computer first displays its move as
usual. After the move is made, CHECt' flashes inthe display fora few
seconds, along with the checking move. The display then goes back to
showing the clock.
If the computer discovers a forced mate against its opponent, it first
displays its move as usual. After the move has been made onthe
board, the computer flashes a mate announcement along with the
move for several seconds (e.g., + m 5 fora mate intwo moves). The
display then goes back to showing the clock.
When a game ends in checkmate, the display flashes lilfitE (along
with the mating move) fora short time after the move is made. The
display then goes back to showing the clock.
The computer recognizes draws by stalemate, three-fold repetition,
andthe 50-move rule and insufficient material. After a draw hasoc-
curred, the display flashes End,End:3,£nd:SO,or £nd: ln,(along with the
drawing move) fora brief time after the move has been made. The
display then goes back to showing the clock.
2.5 Interrupting the Computer's Search
Think the computer is taking too long to move? Youcan interrupt it
any time! Simply press ENTER while the computer is thinking, andit
will stop and play the best move ithas found so far. This feature canbe
handy onthe higher levels, where the computer can take a long time to
move, andonthe Infinite Level, where the computer thinks indefinitely
unless you stop it.
On the Mate Search Levels, pressing ENTER won't force the com-
puter to make a move. Instead, the computer will sound an error beep
and display -----to indicate that it was interrupted before it found a
mate. To continue play, switch to another level.
2.6 Changing Sides with the Computer
To change sides with the computer, simply press ENTER when it's
your turn—and the computer will make the next move for your side.
Change sides as often asyou wish!
Noted that if you press ENTER at a new game, computer will play
White from top (see also Section 5.1).
2.7 Built-in Openings
At the beginning ofa game, the computer will often move instantly on
many levels. This is because itis playing from memory, using itsown
built-in "book" of opening chess moves. This book contains thousands
of positions, including most major openings and many positions from
grandmaster play. Ifthe current board position isinits book, the com-
puter plays a response to that position automatically, instead of having
to think about the move!
A special feature of this computer's opening book isits ability to
handle transpositions. A transposition occurs when a position reached
by a certain setof moves can also be reached when those same moves
occur ina different order. The computer's integrated Automatic Trans-
position Manager handles these cases with ease!
Also included is a unique user-selectable book feature, which lets

you choose from different types of opening books, or even turn the
book off, if desired. For complete details, see Section 5.2.
2.8 Thinking onthe Opponent's Time
As you play, youmay notice that the computer sometimes replies to
your moves immediately, even inthe middle of games played onthe
higher levels. This is because the computer thinks on your time, using
the time youare taking for your move to think ahead and plan itsown
strategies. It tries to guess the move youare likely to make, and then
calculates its responses for that particular move while youare still
thinking. Ifthe computer has guessed right, there's no reason foritto
keep on calculating—it immediately plays the move ithas already
found!
To disable this feature, turn on the Easy Mode option, as described in
Section 5.2.
2.9 Game Memory
Press GO/STOP atany time to interrupt a game. Play is then sus-
pended, andthe computer stores your current game in memory (upto
50 individual moves). When you switch back on again, youcan con-
tinue right where you left off!
3.THE PLAYING LEVELS
Your chess computer offers 64 different levels of play! When youset
the level, keep in mind that when the computer has more time to think
about its moves, it becomes stronger and plays better—just like a
human chess player! Foran overview ofallthe levels, refer tothe Level
Chart. The levels are also described individually in this section.
Setting a Playing Level
See "USE THIS CHART TO SELECT A PLAYING LEVEL!" for
an illustrated look at how to set a level and a chart showing all
the levels ata glance. _____________
There aretwo methods of setting levels—by using the game keys or
pressing the board squares. Whichever method you use, always press
LEVEL first to enter Level Mode, andthe computer will display the
current playing level. When you enter Level Mode the first time, the
computer isseton Normal Playing Level A4 (with an average response
time of five seconds a move), andthe display shows L 0:OS.
« To select a level by using game keys: After entering Level Mode
by pressing LEVEL, change levels oneata time by using the
BLACK/+ and WHITE/- keys. Asa shortcut, press LEVEL repeat-
edly to skip over eight levels ata time. When the display shows
your desired level, press ENTER to enter your new level into the
computer and exit Level Mode.
•To select a level by pressing board squares: As shown inthe
Level Chart, each ofthe64 squares corresponds toone level. After
entering Level Mode by pressing LEVEL, take a chess piece and
press the desired square to activate a level, using the chart asa
guide. When you press down on your chosen square and that level
shows inthe display, press ENTER to enter your new level into the
computer and exit Level Mode. Note that when making your
selection via the board squares, pressing CLEAR has the same
effect as pressing ENTER—it enters your level into the computer.
•To verify the level without changing it:Ifyou press LEVEL to
verify the level butyou don't want to actually change levels, press
CLEAR. This returns youto normal play without changing the level
or clock settings, even while the computer is thinking.
Other important points to remember regarding levels:
• Changing the level always resets the chess clocks.
•We don't recommend changing levels while the computer is
thinking, since the clock is reset and the current search is aborted.
If you must do this, first press ENTER to abort the computer's
search, and make its move on the board. Then, take back the
computer's move and change the level. Finally, press ENTER to
make the computer start thinking on the new level.
3.1 Normal Playing Levels (Squares A1-B7)
LEVEL TIME PER MOVE DISPLAY
A1 ....................1 second.................... L
A2 ....................2 seconds.................. L
A3 ....................3 seconds .................. L
A4 ....................5 seconds ..............:... L
A5 ..................10 seconds.................. L
A6 .................. 15 seconds .................. L
' A7 ..................20 seconds.................. L
A8 ..................30 seconds.................. L
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u-u i
n.n ~i
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n.n D
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n-nr
U'U J
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u- 13
n. in
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n-~in
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USE THIS CHART TO SELECT
A PLAYING LEVEL!
Press LEVEL to enter Level Mode.
2
r^
. Next, select your level, using the chart on i
the right. There aretwo ways todo this, ^ '
as follows.
• Cycle through the levels until your level is
displayed:
e
Press BLACK/+ to increase f levels by
one.
• Press WHITE/- to decrease J levels by
one.
• Press LEVEL to increase f levels by
eight.
e
OR, simply locate your level square and press
oneofthe pegged chess pieces down into
the hole to display that level!
3. Finally, press ENTER to exit Level
Mode, using your new level!
'Increase as user's time per move.
For more details, see Section 3.
30 sec.
per move
i non
i_ u' 3u
AS
20 sec.
per move
L u:cu
A7
15 sec.
per move
.1 n. ic
i i_ U' ID
A6
10 sec.
per move
, n. in
u u- iu
AS
5 sec.
per move
u u-u 3
A4
3 sec.
per move
i n.na
!„ U'U J
A3
2 sec.
per move
i n.nir
*_ U-UC
A2
1 sec.
per move
i n.n i
l_ U'U 1
A1
infinite
Level
3:33=33
B8
10 min.
per move
i m-nn
l_ IIJ-UU
B7
5 min.
per move
i c-nn
l_ 3-UU
66
3 min.
per move
i D.nn
(_ 3-UU
B5
2 min.
per move
C I-'UU
B4
1.5 min.
per move
i i. an
i_ I-3U
B3
1 min.
per move
i ,.nn
(_ I-UU
B2
45 sec.
per move
i n*,jc
B1
40 moves
in 3:00
3
-nn-i m
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C8
50 moves
in 2:00
3-nn-cn
C-uu:3u
C7
45 moves
in 2:30
P.: 30;%
C6
40 moves
in 2:00
C:uui'~iu
C5
35 moves
in 1:30
|:3[j:3S
C4
40 moves
in 1:45
C3
35 moves
in 1 :45
':yS:3S
C2
40 moves
in 1:30
!:30iHO
C1
90 min.
per game
I' 30:33
D8
60 min.
per game
i:OC:33
D7
45 min.
per game
O'HS-99
D6
30 min.
per game
non.Qo
u-3u:33
D5
20 min.
per game
n; Dn-oo
D4
15 min.
per game
0= I5-99
D3
10 min.
per game
n; in^oc)
D2
5 min.
per game
n:nr:OQ
D1
*8 sec.
per move
Fur,: 8
E8
7 sec.
per move
Fur,: "!
E7
6 sec.
per move
Fun: 6
E6
5 sec.
per move
Fur,: 5
E5
4 sec.
per move
r un • i
E4
3 sec.
per move
Fun: 3
E3
2 sec.
per move
run- c
£.2
1 sec.
per move
Fur,: !
E1
Mate in
8 moves
+ ,rv 8
F8
Mate in
7 moves
I ,n= 1
F7
Mate in
6 moves
+ irv S
F6
Mate in
5 moves
I . C
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F5
Mate in
4 moves
1 ,n' H
F4
Mate in
3 moves
f ,,-v 3
F3
Mate in
2 moves
+ ,n: i?
F2
Mate in
1 move
T m: !
F1
8 ply
search
PL'11: 8
G8
7 ply
search
Piy: i
G7
6 ply
search
Fiy: &
G6
5 ply
search
PL'd: 5
GS
4 ply
search
Pi.y: '-!
G4
3 ply
search
Oi u- "i
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G3
2 ply
search
PL'3: rj
G2
1ply
search
PL y; i
G1
Self-
adaptive 8
n IL.- Q
noc* O
H8
Self-
adaptive 7
Rdfc: 1
H7
Self-
adaptive 6
Rdfc: 6
H6
Self-
adaptive 5
Rdfc: 5
H5
Self-
adaptive 4
Rdfc: H
H4
Self-
adaptive 3
Rdfc: 3
H3
Self-
adaptive 2
Rdfc: 3
H2
Self-
adaptive 1
Rdfc: i
H1
L J L. JL J L J L rf'^ta^'^ta ^^
NORMAL LEVELS + TOURNAMENJ BLITZ FUN MATE SEARCH TRAINING SELF-ADAPTIVE
INFINITE LEVEL LEVELS LEVELS LEVELSLEVELS LEVELS WEAK LEVELS
SI
V-f.S

B1 ..................45 seconds.................. L 0:HS
B2 .................... 1 minute .................... L !:GO
B3 ....................1.5 minutes ............... L !:30
B4 ....................2 minutes................... L c^GO
B5 ....................3 minutes................... L 3=00
• nn
•uu
B6 ....................5 minutes................... L ^-Q
B7 .................. 10 minutes................... L !0=00
When you choose oneofthe Normal Playing Levels, youare select-
ingan average response time forthe computer. Note that the times are
averaged over a large number of moves. Inthe opening and endgame,
the computer tends to play faster, butin complicated middlegame
positions, itmay take longer to move.
3.2 Infinite Level (Square B8)
LEVEL MOVE TIME DISPLAY
B8 ................. No time limit................. 3:33;39
On the Infinite Level, the computer will search indefinitely, until it finds
a forced mate or forced move; until ithas fully searched the position to
its maximum depth; or until you press ENTER to stop the search. Ifyou
halt the search, the computer makes the move it currently thinks is best.
Try experimenting with this level—set up some interesting board
positions andletthe computer analyze them for you. It will think for
hours or even days on end, trying to come up with the best possible
move! And don't forget to watch the computer asit thinks—take advan-
tage ofthe unique Rotating Display feature described in Section 5.3!
3.3 TournamentLevels (Squares C1-C8)
LEVEL TOTAL TIME / NUMBER OF MOVES DISPLAY
C1 ........... 1 hr.30 min. / 40 moves................... !:30:.HO
C2 ........... 1 hr.45 min. / 35 moves ................... !=4Si3S
C3 ........... 1 hr.45 min. / 40 moves ................... !=4S=40
C4 ........... 1 hr.30 min. 735 moves................... I=30i35
C5 ........... 2 hrs. / 40 moves .............................. 8=00=40
C6 ........... 2 hrs. 30 min. / 45 moves ................. «?=30:.4S
C7........... 2 hrs. 7 50 moves .............................. 8=00=50
C8 ........... 3 hrs. 7 40 moves .............................. 3=00=40
The Tournament Levels require youto make a certain number of
moves within a given amount of time. Ifa player exceeds the allotted
time fora given number of moves, the computer flashes "time" (t !fl£)
along with the elapsed time, to show that the game is over. Ifyou wish,
youcan continue to play even after the time hasrun out.
If you choose a Tournament Level, youmay want tosetthe clocks to
display countdown time instead of elapsed time (see Section 5.1).
When game time runs out, the countdown clock automatically reverts
backtothe normal clock display.
Your computer also offers the option of using Bronstein Clock time
controls when playing Tournament games! For complete details, see
Section 5.4.
3.4 Blitz Levels (Squares D1-D8)
LEVEL TIME PER GAME DISPLAY
D1 ....................5 minutes................... 0:QS;93
D2 .................. 10 minutes................... 0: I0;39
D3.................. 15 minutes................... 0: IS;39
D4 .................. 20 minutes................... 0^0:39
D5..................30 minutes................... 0=30:33
D6 ..................45 minutes................... 0=HS=33
D7..................60 minutes................... !:OG;33
D8..................90 minutes................... !:30;33
On the Blitz Levels (also called Speed Chess or "Sudden Death"
Levels), yousetthe total time forthe whole game. If game time is
exceeded, the computer flashes "time" (fc !!"!£) along with the elapsed
time, to show that the game is over.
If you select a Blitz Level, youmay want tosetthe chess clocks to
display countdown time instead of elapsed time (see Section 5.1).
When game time runs out, the countdown clock automatically reverts
back tothe normal clock display.
Your computer also offers the option of using Bronstein Clock time
controls when playing Blitz games! For complete details, see Section
5.4.
3.5Fun Levels (Squares E1-E8)
LEVEL TIME PER MOVE
E1 .................. 1 second................
E2 .................. 2 seconds ................... Fun:
E3 .................. 3 seconds ................... Fun:
E4 .................. 4 seconds ................... Fun:
E5 .................. 5 seconds ................... Fun:
E6 .................. 6 seconds ................... Fun:
' E7 .................. 7 seconds ................... Fun:
E8 ................. *8 seconds ................... Fur.:
DISPLAY
Fun: !
5
3
H
s
&

"Increase as user's time per move.
Are youa novice or beginning chess player? Ifso, these levels are
especially for you! Here, the computerrestricts its search so that it
deliberately plays weaker and gives youa better chance to win!
TheFun Levels start out easy andgeta little harder asyougo.The
computer's playing strength goes up gradually from Levels E1to E6—
but be prepared for some stiffer competition when you reach Levels E7
and E8! These two highest Fun Levels represent a much greater jump
in playing strength, and you'll notice that they're quite a bit more chal-
lenging. TryoutalltheFun Levels—as you beat each one, goontothe
next! Bythe time you reach Levels E7andE8, your improved chess
skills should make them much easier to handle!
G6...................6 moves.
DISPLAY
3.6 Mate Search Levels (Squares F1-F8)
LEVEL PROBLEM
F1 .................... Mate in1 ..............
F2 .................... Mate in 2..............
F3 .................... Mate in 3................... + m
F4 .................... Mate in 4..............
F5 .................... Mate in 5..............
F6 .................... Mate in 6.............
F7 .................... Mate in 7.............
F8 .................... Mate in 8.............
Selecting oneof these levels activates a special Mate Finder Pro-
gram. Ifyou have a position where there maybea mate andyou would
like the computer to find it,setthe computer ononeofthe Mate Search
Levels. Your computer can solve mates inupto eight moves. Mates in
oneto five are usuallyfound quite quickly, whereas solutionstaking six
to eight moves may take quite some time. If there isno mate present or
the computer can't find a mate, it will sound an error beep and display a
series of dashes (-----). To continueplay,simply switch to another
level.
8
3.7 Training Levels (Squares G1-G8)
LEVEL
G1 ....
G2....
G3...,
G4....
G5....
SEARCH DEPTH
DISPLAY
moves ...................... PLy;
moves ...................... PLy=
.5 moves ...................... P
G8...................8 moves......................PL';|: 8
On the Training Levels, the computer's search depth is limited toa
certain number of moves, as shown above. Asyou cycle through the
levels, the computer displays PL'd: # for each level. A "ply" isan indi-
vidual move (a move for either side), and "#" isthe number representing
the search depth. For example, on Level G1, the computer searches to
a depth ofoneply (PL'd: I),and thus looks ahead only one individual
move. On thislevel, therefore, it will often overlook a mate in one.This
produces weaker play, giving beginners a better chance of beating the
computer!
3.8 Self-Adaptive Weak Levels (Squares H1-H8)
LEVEL TYPE DISPLAY
H1 ............... Self-Adaptive 1 ............. Rdb- i
H2 ............... Self-Adaptive 2 ............. Rdb: $
H3 ............... Self-Adaptive 3 ............. Rdb: 3
H4...............Self-Adaptive 4............. Rdb= H
H5............... Self-Adaptive 5 ............. Rdb: *3
H6 ............... Self-Adaptive 6 ............. Rdb: &
H7 ............... Self-Adaptive 7 ............. Rdb= 1
H8............... Self-Adaptive 8 ............. Rdb: 8
The Self-Adaptive Weak Levels are perfect for players whoare just
starting out! Here, beginners have the chance to interact with the
computer on eight weakened levels of varying ELO rating strengths,
andthe computer's strength is adjusted to match that ofthe player. Not
sure what anELO rating is? It's a wayof measuring chess performance!
Chess ratings are usually four-digit numbers, with stronger players
having higher ratings. Towards the upper endofthe scale, masters rank
in at 2200 and above. Just for your information, on some ofits stronger
levels, your computer is rated at over 2000 ELO!
Since these Self-Adaptive Weak Levels are meant especially for
beginners, however, here the computer will setits playing strength toa
deliberately weakened setting of about -350 ELOonthe lowest level
(H1). Onthe other end, Level H8 matches the player's strength by
putting theELO difference at zero. Asyou play, the computer will tryto
keep thisdifferenceconstant. That is,ifyou play badly, the computer
will not play"Well either—but it will fight towin back material ithas lost to
you, if necessary. Onthe other hand, ifyou play stronger, the computer

will also play stronger. Work your wayup!
4. INFO MODE: WATCH THE COMPUTER THINK!
Imagine this: You're playing chess against a friend, and it's his
move. You'd love to know what move he's thinking about, and you'd
really like to get his opinion of the board position. But, of course, you
won't ask—because that's just not done! Well,guess what—when you
play against this chess computer, youcanask anything you want, and
you'll getallthe answers! In fact, youcangetan incredible amount of
information about the computer's thought process. On request, it will
show youthe move it's thinking of,the line of play it expects after that
move, its evaluation ofthe current board position, how deeply itis
searching, and more. Asyoucan imagine, studying this information can
help you learn so much more about chess!
Using info Mode
How doyou access all this game information? By using Info Mode at
any time! Ifyoudo this while the computer is thinking,you'll seethe
information displays change asthe computer considers different moves
and searches deeper!
See "INFO MODE AT A GLANCE!" for a chart summarizing all
the Info Mode displays. ________________
Game information is divided into four groups, and pressingINFO
cycles from one group to another. The BLACK/+ and WHITE/- keys
can be used to cycleforward and backwardrespectively the displays
within each ofthe groups. Press CLEAR to exit Info Mode andgo back
to showing the normal chessclock.
After learningabout Info Mode, take a look at Section 5.3fora
description ofthe Rotating Display feature. Selectingthis feature makes
the computer automatically cycle through the requested information in
one-second intervals every time it thinks about its move—you can
actually watch the computer think out loud!
Whenever requested information is not available, the display will
show dashes (---- -).
4.1 Principal Variation
Press INFO the first time toget information onthe principal variation
INFO MODE ATA GLANCE!
PRINCIPAL VARIATION INFO:
X1• Move 1 (predicted line of play)
• Move 2 (predicted line of play)
• Move 3 (predicted line of play)
• Move 4 (predicted line of play)
• Move 5 (predicted line of play)
• Move 6 (predicted line of play)
j 1
^
SEARCH INFO:
x2.
Evaluation of current position
2 numbers: Search depth + number
of moves examined sofar
Current move underconsideration
Positions searched per second
t
CHESS CLOCK INFO:
X3
Elapsed time since last move
• Total elapsed time for White
• Total elapsed time for Black
• Remainingtime for White*
• Remaining time for Black*
'Blitz/Tournament Levels only
MOVE COUNT INFO:
X4• Current move number made sofar
Moves ofthe current game
Press
at any time to exit Info Mode.
For more details, see Section 4.
10

(the predicted line of play, orthe sequence of moves the computer
thinks will be made). The first display you will seeisthe move the
computer is currently thinking of making. Notice that the move is shown
in the display, and the lights for the from and to squares for that move
also flash alternately. This principal variation is shown toa maximum
depth ofsix individual moves. Press BLACK/+ repeatedly to cycle
forwards allthe moves:
• Move 1 (predicted line of play)
• Move 2 (predicted line of play)
<• Move 3 (predicted line of play)
® Move 4 (predicted line of play)
• Move 5 (predicted line of play)
9
Move 6 (predicted line of play)
Press WHITE/- to back upandsee previous displays again. Press
CLEAR to return tothe normal clock display.
Since the first move of the predicted line of play is the move the
computer assumes you will make, you can also consider this move as a
hint! So—whenever you need help, press INFO on your turn!
4.2 Search Information
Press INFO a second time toget information onthe computer's
search! Press BLACK/+ repeatedly to cycle forwards the four displays:
9
Evaluation ofthe current position (based ona pawn being worth 1.0
points; a positive number indicates White is ahead)
•Two numbers: The first isthe current search depth, orthe number
of individual moves the computer is looking ahead; the second is
the number of moves the computer has examined sofar
•The move currently being considered
9
The search speed, or number of positions (nodes) being searched
every second
Press WHITE/- to cycle backwards andsee previous displays again.
Press CLEAR to return tothe normal clock display.
4.3 Chess Clock Information
Press INFO a third time for chess clock information. The chess
clocks keep track ofthe time for both sides. Press BLACK/+ repeatedly
to cycle forwards the clock displays:
9
Elapsed time since the last move was made
• Total elapsed time for White
• Total elapsed time for Black
• Remaining time for White (Blitz/Tournament Levels only)
• Remaining time for Black (Blitz/Tournament Levels only)
Press WHITE/- to back upandsee previous displays again. Press
CLEAR to return tothe normal clock display.
The clocks stop whenever you take back a move orsetupa new
position. However, the times are retained in memory, andthe clocks
resume as soon as play is continued. Whenever you change levels or
press NEW GAME, the chess clocks are always reset.
During the game, a clock showing elapsed time displays the piece
symbols one by one, from pawn to King. A clock showing countdown
time shows the symbols going in the other direction, from King to pawn.
4.4 Move Count/Game Moves
Press INFO a fourth time to show the move number inthe game so
far. Pressing WHITE/- repeatedly will cycle back through the moves of
your game (upto50 individual moves).
• Current move number made sofar
• Moves ofthe current game
Press BLACK/+ togo forward through the moves again atany point.
Press CLEAR to return tothe normal clock display.
4.5 Want a Hint? Just Ask!
In case you missed this feature when itwas mentioned in Section 4.1,
we wanted to point itout again—if you ever need advice ona move, you
can always askthe computer fora hint. Simply press INFO when it's
your turn to move, andthe computer will show a suggested move for
your side!
5. OPTIONS FORFUNAND VARIETY
in addition toallthe features you've learned about so far, your chess
computer also offers many other exciting game options! Allof these
options are user-selectable atany time during a game. They arede-
scribed individually in this section, and summarized inthe Option Mode
Chart.
Selecting Game Options
There aretwo methods of setting options, as described below—by
using the game keys or pressing board squares.
11

See "THE BASICS OF OPTION MODE: HERE'S HOW!" for a
chart summarizing how to use Option Mode, and an overview of
all the options. __
The Game Options are divided into four groups:Operation Mode,
Playing Mode, Rotating Display Mode, and Bronstein Clock Options.
Pressing OPTION cycles from one group to another, and each group
contains a different setof options.
•For Operation Mode, Playing Mode, and Rotating Display Mode
options, the BLACK/+ and WHITE/- keys are used to cycle
through the options within each group. For each option, a plus (+)
in the display indicates the option isON,anda minus (-) means the
option is OFF. Press ENTER to turn each option onoroffasitis
displayed.
•For Bronstein Clock Options, press ENTER to cycle through the
different clock options. The clock option you choose to display will
be the selected time control when you exit Option Mode. Ifyou
decide notto activate the Bronstein Clock after all, simply press
ENTER repeatedly until the display once again shows -bron.(see
Section 5.4).
After you have made all your option selections from anyorallofthe
option groups, press CLEAR to return to normal game play.
Another method of selecting game options is by pressing the option
squares. As shown inthe OptionsChart,Squares A1-H1, A2-H2, AS-
MS, andA4canbe used to turn options onand off. First, press OPTION
to enter Option Mode; then take a chess piece and press the desired
square to access any option, using the chart asa guide.
•For Operation Mode, Playing Mode, and Rotating Display Mode
options, pressing the square repeatedly turns that option onand
off, with plus (+)forONand minus (-)for OFF.
•For Bronstein Clock Options, pressing Square A4 repeatedly
selects your desired clock setting.
After making your selections, press CLEAR to return to your game.
When the computer is first powered on, certain default options are
set. Options which are automatically in effect at the first startup are
shown in the chart with a plus; options which are off are shown with a
minus. When you reset for a new game, most of your selected options
are carried over to your next game. Some exceptions are Auto Answer,
which is automatically set back to ON when you start a new game, and
Play White from the Top, which is set back to OFF.
5.1 Operation Mode Options (Squares A1-H1)
Press OPTION once to select the Operation Mode Options. Then
use the BLACK/+ and WHITE/- keys to select options within this group,
and press ENTER to turn options on(+)oroff (-). Or, simply press the
option squares to turn options onor off.
a. Auto Answer Mode (Square A1)
Om + Rubo Off:-Ruto
Normally, the computer automatically answers with a countermove
whenever you enter a move. Ifyou turn Auto Answer off, however, you
can enter any number of moves oneby one, without allowing the
computer to answer. You'll see that there are many great ways touse
this feature!
• Play through master games. Press ENTER to see what the com-
puter would do in any position!
• Keep records of your own chess games. When a game is over, play
to any position to see how other moves or different strategies might
have affected the outcome.
• Study opening lines by entering them manually!
• Play against a friend, with the computer acting as referee. It will
monitor your game, checking all moves for legality and keeping
track of time for both sides!
When playing against another person, if either side should need help,
press INFO toseea suggested move. Tosee what the computer would
do ina certain position, press ENTER andthe computer will make the
next move. After ithas made its move, Auto Answer remains off, and
youmay continue your game.
Note that this option will automatically go back to its default setting of
ON whenever you press NEW GAME.
b. Sound with Keypress (Square B1)
On:tSHd Off:-SP.d
This option lets you turn offthe sound that accompanies each
keypress. You will still hear beeps when the computer moves or when
an illegal move or keypress is made, or when NEW GAME is set.
c. Silent Mode (Square C1)
On: + S iL Off:-S !L
Normally, the computer always beeps when ithas found its move. For
completely silent operation, turn on Silent Mode.
12

i
m
i
1
r?i
s;
9
|i
II
IllWSSJ'S^S^
THE BASICS OF OPTION MODE: HERE'S HOW!
1 . Press OPTION repeatedly to ^> OPERATION MODE (Ruho,,.)
select a Mode. *^
9 x2 = PLAYING MODE (5EL...)
2. Next, select your option(s), using ROTATING DISPLAY MODE (rd- I.
the Option Chart below. There are
two ways todo this.
.-)
• Cycle through the options within Jf *4 = BRONSTEIN CLOCK (bron...)
that mode:
• Press BLACK/+ to cycle PS x5= back to
forward -*•.
• Press WHITE/- to cycle
backward •*—.
• When your option is displayed,
press ENTER to toggle iton
(+) oroff (-).
(For the Bronstein Clock, press
ENTER repeatedly to select a
time setting.)
9
OR, simply locate your option
square and press oneofthe pegged
pieces down into the hole to toggle
that option on(+)oroff (-).
(For the Bronstein Clock, press
Square A4 repeatedly to select a
time setting.)
j3. Finally, press CLEAR to
exit Option Mode, using
your new option(s)!
BRONSTEIN |
CLOCK -^
OPTIONS 1
ROTATING §
DISPLAY -^
OPTIONS 1
^.
PLAYING 1
MODE -^F
OPTIONS |
V
OPERATION 0
MODE -^J
OPTIONS 1
^
OPERATION MODE...
Bronstein I
Clock r— «>x .|_n.n i _^,i n.ro
t
. n.m
-bronT^
UU'U_'_ OU'UL
Variation
to ply 1
-rd: !
A3
Selective/
Brute Force
+ 5EL
A2
Auto
Answer
At
CH-
Variation
to ply2
B3
Easy
Mode
B2
Sound with
Keypress
B1
lillSiBiStSii^
^•••^'•\^^!''-.'- V^o^v:^;
v^;^..^;:^.^ ,;• .^:';f^ .•
v,4 i ^-^
Variation Variation
to ply3 toply4
Trd'3 -rd'M
C3 D3
RandomBook
Play On/Off
~i~d*~*o 'Oooc
C2D2
Silent Coach
ModeMode
-5 !L -Co:ch
C1 01
'&
__^ i ! n-rii" -..^1.1 n- in ^_^. i!_n-~in ^^^ii_n-~in
^^ i Ou'Ui D ^^ * Oi_i' 'f_i ^^ f ijU'C U ^^^ * OU' -Jf-i
1; "1 , : r -; :;,:';•*<• : r;^?
Position Depth & Nodes Time per
Evaluation Moves Searched Move
_rd:E -j-^;^ _r|_j:n _rcj:i...
E3 F3G3H3
Full PassiveActive Tournament
BookBook Book Book
-bb-'FL -bb=P3 -bt':3b -blf:tn
E2 F2G2H2
Ticking Countdown Play White Auto Power
ClockClock from Top Down
-b ,c -c=dn -boP -3Pd
E1F1G1H1
For more details, see Section 5.
~1:^';rfefe'3'^^l^;^fi;::^^
''M
'-'V:
-: .- ;:'
:•:-.{';
13

d. Coach Mode (Square D1)
On: + Co=ch Off:-Co:ch
Selecting + Co:ch turns on special coaching features that encourage
you to concentrate on your strategic planning! In Coach Mode, the
computer looks over your shoulder while you play, watching what you
do and helping you when you need assistance! In this unique "Guardian
Angel" capacity, the computer will warn you with a Capture Alert ifyou
arein danger of losing a piece. Ifoneof your pieces is threatened bya
lesser valued piece, for example, the computer will sound a series of
warning beeps and flash the board lights ofthe threatened piece fora
few seconds. To continue the game, make your next move (or take back
your last move and make a different one).
With Coach Mode on,the computer will also sound a Tactical Alert ifit
thinks you have committed a blunder and your move is about to lead to
an avoidable material loss. It does this by sounding a series of warning
beeps and flashing the move it intends to make. Youcan either enter
the computer's move, or take back your own move and make another
one.
e. Ticking Clock (Square E1)
On: + b ic Off:-t ,c
When you turn this option on,you activate a ticking sound that makes
the computer's clock sound like a real chess clock! Just imagine—you
can create the atmosphere ofa championship chess tournament in your
own living room!
f. Countdown Clock (Square F1)
On: + c:dn Off:-c:dn
Turning this option on causes the computer to display the countdown
time instead ofthe elapsed time. Notice that the piece symbols also
reverse direction, counting "down" from King to pawn. This option is
only available in combination with the Tournament and Blitz Levels.
g. Play White from the Top (Square G1)
On: + fcoP Off:-boP
Want to depart from the usual standard andletthe computer play the
White pieces from thetopofthe board? Then tryout this interesting
option! Choose +hoP atthe beginning ofa new game, andsetupthe
board with the Black pieces closest to you, as shown inthe diagram in
this section. Then, press ENTER to start the game. Watch asthe
computer makes the first move for White from thetopofthe board!
PLAYING BLACK FROM THE
BOTTOM?
HERE'S THE POSITION!
When the computer plays White from
thetop (Section 5.1, Option G1), be sure
to setupthe pieces correctly! Notice that
the Kings and Queens are positioned
differently, andthe board notation is
reversed.
See "PLAYING BLACK FROM THE BOTTOM? HERE'S THE
POSITION!" for a diagram showing the correct piece set-up when
using this option.
When the computer plays White from the top, board notation is
automatically reversed. Additionally, this option will go back to its default
setting of OFF when you start a new game.
h. Auto Power Down (Square H1)
On: + 3Pd Off:-3Pd
Auto Power Down option isa handy battery-saving feature. With this
option activated, the computer will automaticallyturn itself offifno
keypresses or moves are made for about 15 minutes. To continue the
game where you left off, press GO/STOP to turn the unit back on. Note
that the computer will not turn itself off while it is thinking about a move.
5.2 Playing ModeOptions (Squares A2-H2)
Press OPTION twice to select the Playing Mode Options. Then
use the BLACK/+ and WHITE/- keys to select options within this group,
and press ENTER to turn options on(+)oroff (-). Or, simply press the
optionsquares to turn options onor off.
a. Selective Search (Square A2)
On:tSEL Off:-S£L
The program in this chess computer normally uses a Selective
14

Search algorithm. This allows the computer tosee combinationsthat
would otherwise take much longer to compute. Turning this option offby
choosing -SEi makes the program switch toa powerful Brute Force
algorithm. This search method minimizes the risk ofan occasional *
oversight.
Note that the Mate Search Levels always use the Brute Force
method.
b. Easy Mode (Square B2)
On: + £RSy Off:-£RSy
Want towin more games against the computer? Try turning on Easy
Mode, which prevents the computer from thinking on your time! This
weakens all the playing levels without affecting the computer's time
controls. Normally, as described in Section 2.8, the computer thinks on
your time, using the time youare contemplating your next move to think
ahead and plan its strategies. This is part of what makes your computer
such a tough opponent! By using Easy Mode to make allthe levels
weaker, you effectively have many more levels to choose from!
c. Randomize Play (Square C2)
On: + r3nd Off:-,- ,3nd
Turn this option onfor greater variety of play. Instead of selecting one
single best move, the computer will then choose oneofthe best moves
to play by consulting its built-in Randomizer!
d. Book On/Off (Square D2)
On:+ boot1 Off: -boot
If you ever want to completely lock outthe computer's built-in book of
openings, set this option to -boob'. When the book is off, the computer
is forced to take time to think ofits moves from the beginning ofthe
game, rather than making its moves from memory. For details on
openings, see Section 2.7.
If you turn the book completely off, the other book options (described
below) are also automatically disabled.
e. Full Book (Square E2)
Turning onthe Full Book option gives the computer the freedom to
choose any move from its built-in book of openings, so you'll seea
greater variety of opening lines being played. If this option is selected,
the Passive, Active, and Tournament Book options are disabled.
With this option on, you may see the computer make some question-
able moves. This is because its built-in book of openings must contain
responses to certain lines of play (even questionable lines), in case they
are played. While the computer would not make these moves on its
own, it needs to know how to respond to them in the best way. There-
fore, when you turn on the Full Book, the computer could potentially
play one of these moves.
f. Passive Book (Square F2)
On: + by:P3 Off:-bb':P3
Selecting the Passive Book option forces the computer to give
preference to passive and closed positions when deciding which lines to
play. If this option is selected, the Active Book and Tournament Book
options are disabled.
g. Active Book (Square G2)
On: + bb'-3b Off:-be=3b
When this option is activated, the computer will give preference to
active lines and open positions when deciding which lines to play. If this
option is selected, the Passive Book and Tournament Book options are
disabled.
h. Tournament Book (Square H2)
On:tbt?:tn Off:-bif:bn
When you turn the Tournament Book option on,the computer is
forced to always select the best possible line of play in every opening.
While this results inthe best chess play, it also narrows down the
computer's choice of moves by limiting its available book lines. If this
option is selected, the Active Book and Passive Book options are
disabled.
5.3 Rotating Display Options (Squares A3-H3)
Normally, the computer's display shows the time forthe player to
move. However, the computer can also display other information, as
described in Section 4 (Info Mode). The Rotating Display feature works
hand-in-hand with Info Mode, since it allows youto choose which ofthe
Info Displays you want to see, and then cycles your choices in one-
second increments. Youmay turn onanyorallofthe Rotating Display
options, as desired.
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IMPORTANT: The Rotating Display feature is only activated
WHILE THE COMPUTER IS THINKING.________________
Press OPTION three times to select the Rotating Display Op-
tions. Then usethe BLACK/+ and WHITE/- keys to select the options
you want tosee rotated inthe display. The options are described below
and summarized inthe Option Mode Chart in this section. Press EN-
TER to turn these options on(+)oroff (-). Or, simply press the option
squares to turn the options onor off.
If you think the display information is changing too quickly when it
rotates, press INFO to freeze the display. Successive presses of INFO
andthe BLACK/+ and WHITE/- keys will allow youto cycle through all
the displays manually, as described in Section 4.To start the display
rotation again, press OPTION followed by CLEAR. Inany event, when
the computer starts thinking about its next move, the display automati-
cally starts rotating again.
The game information youcansee while the computer is thinking
includes the following:
• rd: I to rd:H = the predicted line of play (upto four individual
moves)
• rd:£ = an evaluation ofthe current position
• ,-d:d = the computer's search depth, andthe number of moves
examined sofarinthe game
» rd:n = the number of nodes searched per second
» rd:t = the amount of time the move has taken sofar
When requested information is not available, the display will show a
series of dashes (---- -).
For complete descriptions of these options and details on exactly how
to interpret the displays, see Section 4.
5.4 Bronstein Clock Options (Square A4)
Onthe Blitz and Tournament levels, you have a fixed amount of time
for each game, andthe remaining time decreases asyou think. On
these levels, players often find themselves running outof time towards
theendofthe game—struggling totryand make good moves ina hurry,
and often ending up making inferior moves instead.
The Bronstein Clock option offers special time controls that can help
alleviate such problems. This is accomplished by adding a certain
amount of time back to your remaining time after each move, where the
remaining time forthe whole game is only reduced ifyougo over this
fixed time level.
Here's an example: Let's say you're playing Blitz Level D4, where you
have a total of20 minutes forthe whole game. Activating the Bronstein
+ bO: 10 option will give youa maximum 10 seconds time compensation
per move (added after you make your move). Note that you can't gain
extra time or increase overall thinking time by playing each move more
quickly, since:
•Ifyouuse7 seconds to make your move, only 7 seconds will be
added to your total remaining time, not 10 seconds.
•Ifyouuse 10 seconds or more to make your move, only 10 seconds
will be added back to your total remaining time.
Press OPTION four times to select the Bronstein Clock Mode.
Then press ENTER repeatedly to select your desired Bronstein Clock
setting, as described below:
BRONSTEIN CLOCK SETTINGS DISPLA Y
Bronstein Clock off............................................ -bron
Maximum 1 sec. added after each move.......... +bO:u I
Maximum 2 sec. added after each move.......... + bO:Oc?
Maximum 3 sec. added after each move.......... +bO:03
Maximum 5 sec. added after each move.......... + bG:OS
Maximum 10 sec. added after each move........ +bG: !0
Maximum 20 sec. added after each move........ +bO:c?G
Maximum 30 sec. added after each move........ +bG:30
6. VERIFYING/SETTING UP POSITIONS
6.1 Verifying Positions
See "IT'S EASY TO VERIFY PIECES!" for a step-by-step ex-
ample of using Verify Mode.
If you should knock over the chess pieces orifyou think your board
position maybe incorrect, the computer can verify allthe piece loca-
tions for you!
When itis your turn, press oneofthe PIECE SYMBOL KEYS (*, *,
1, A, \, or A). The computer shows you where the first piece of that
type is located onthe board—the display shows the piece symbol, color
indicator, a/id square designation, and board lights also indicate the
square. Press the same PIECE SYMBOL KEY again toseethe location
of the next piece of that same type. Allthe White pieces are shown first,
16

IT'S EASY TO VERIFY PIECES!
1. Press NEW GAME to reset the computer, andsetup
the pieces in their starting positions.
Display: D.O'CG'OG.
2. Press the KNIGHT Key.
Display: D,*,b ! (the first White Knight).
Board lights on: B+1.
3. Press KNIGHT again.
Display: D,*,G I (the second White Knight).
Board lights on: G+1.
4. Press KNIGHT again.
Display: l.ft.bS (the first Black Knight).
Board lights on: B+8.
5. Press KNIGHT again.
Display: •.flk.&S (the second Black Knight).
Board lights on: G+8.
6. Press KNIGHT again.
Display: * (no more Knights onthe board).
7. Repeat to verify any other piece! PressCLEAR to
exit Verify Mode.
For more details, see Section 6,1.
then the Black pieces. When there areno more pieces of that type on
the board, only the piece symbol remains inthe display.
Want to verify more pieces? Repeat the above procedure using the
other PIECE SYMBOL KEYS, verifying the entire board if desired!
Press CLEAR to return to normal play.
6.2 Changing and Setting Up Positions
See "TRY OUT POSITION MODE!" togetan idea ofhow this
feature works.
Position Mode isan exciting feature which lets yousetup special
board positions to play from, or problems you want the computer to
solve! Caution: All previous moves in your current game will be erased
from the computer's memory if you make changes to the position during
a game.
Press POSITION to enter Position Mode, and -POS- will show inthe
display. Youcan change orsetupa position whenever itis your turn to
move. After you have setup your new position, press CLEAR to exit
Position Mode.
•To remove a piece from the board,press the piece down onits
square and then remove it. Notice that the display indicates the
piece type and color, along with a minus sign (-) and the square
location.
•To move a piece from one square to another, press the piece
down onits original square, pick itup,and then press it down on
thenew square. Asyoudo this, the display will show a minus sign
(-) for the first square, and a plus sign (+) for the second square.
•Toadda piece tothe board, first press the PIECE SYMBOL KEY
for that piece (*, *, I,1, *, or A). Make sure the display shows
the correct colorsymbol forthe piece you want to add. Ifit does
not, press BLACK/+ or WHITE/- to change the color. When the
display shows the correct piece type and color, place that piece on
the desiredsquare and press down gently. The display shows a
plus sign (+), along with the location for that square. Toadd another
piece ofthe same type, simply press down on another square. To
adda different piece, press a different PIECE SYMBOL KEYand
follow the same steps outlined above.
•To clear the board, press ENTER while youarein Position Mode.
The display will show CIII3 to symbolize an empty chessboard.
Press ENTER once more to confirm that youdo want to clear the
board. Then add pieces as described previously. Ifyou decide not
to clear the board, pressCLEAR to cancel. This feature canbe
handy when you want tosetupa position with only a few pieces,
where it would be mucheasier to start out with an emptyboard!
• Once you have changed the board position as described
above, make sure the color indicator inthe display is showing the
correct color ofthe side to move. Change the color, if necessary, by
pressing BLACK/* or WHITE/-.
•To exit Position Mode, press CLEAR. You will return to normal
game play", with your new board position!
Note that any legal posit/on can be set up using the above proce-
17

TRY OUT POSITION MODE!
1. Press NEW GAME to reset the computer, andset
up the pieces in their starting positions.
Display: D.O'GG'GC!.
2. Press POSITION to enter Position Mode.
Display: -PGS-.
3. Press the White pawn down on Square E2,and
remove it from the board.
Display: D,A,-£c?.
4. Press that same pawn down on Square E3toadd
it tothe board.
Display: D,A, + E3.
5. Press the Black Queen down on Square D8,and
remove it from the board.
Display: •,*,-d8.
6. Press that same Queen down on Square H5toadd
it tothe board.
- Display: B.tt. + HS.
7. Press WHITE/- to change the color to move next.
8. Press CLEAR to return to normal game play.
For more details, see Section 6.2,
placed piece). Then press CLEAR to exit Position Mode.
dures. The computer will not permit you to set up an illegal position,
such as one where there are more than the prescribed number of
pieces for a normal game, or one where a King is in check and is not to
move. In such cases, the computer will simply beep when you press
CLEAR, and you will not be allowed to exit Position Mode. Check the
position using the PIECE SYMBOL KEYS, if necessary, and correct the
position (by adding a piece, removing a piece, or moving an incorrectly
7. TECHNICAL DETAILS
7.1TheACL Function
Computers sometimes "lock up"dueto static discharge or other
electrical disturbances. If this should happen, take outthe batteries and
use a pinor another sharp object to press into the hole marked ACLin
the base ofthe unit forat least one second. This resets the computer.
7.2 Care and Maintenance
Your chess computer isa precision electronic device, and should not
be subjected to rough handling or exposed to extreme temperatures or
moisture. Be sure to remove the batteries before cleaning the unit. Do
notuse chemical agents or liquids to clean the unit, as they may dam-
agethe plastic.
Weak batteries should be replaced promptly, since they can leak and
damage the computer. Please also note the following regarding theuse
of batteries. Warning: Use only alkaline or zinc carbon batteries. Do
not mix different types of batteries or new and used batteries. Do
not recharge non-rechargeable batteries. Use only the recom-
mended batteries or equivalent. Be sure to observe the correct
polarity when inserting batteries. Worn out batteries should be
removed from the unit promptly. Do not short circuit the supply
terminals.
7.3 Technical Specifications
Clock Frequency:
Keys:
LCD Display:
Batteries:
Power Consumption:
Dimensions:
Weight:
10MHz
17
48-segment, 5-digit
4x "AA" (AM3/R6) cells
330 mW maximum
230x 182 x 40mm
0.5kg
Please retain this information for future reference.
. ^
The manufacturer reserves the right to make technical changes without notice
in the interest of progress.
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