the board! When the computer promotes a pawn, the display shows both the pawn and the promoted piece. Don’t forget to replace the computer’s pawn with its new piece.

2.3 Illegal Moves

Your computer will never accept an illegal move. If you try to make one, you’ll hear a low double beep, and the 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 get an error beep. This means you are moving the wrong piece, or moving the computer’s piece to the wrong square. If the computer wants to move its pawn from C7 to C5, for example, and you press down on C7 and then C6, the display shows :C5 briefly, pointing out your error. The display then returns to showing the move again (C7-C5), and the computer expects you to press C5 to complete its move.

If you press down on a piece and the from square is displayed, but you decide not to make the move, press down on that same square again to cancel. Then make another move. If you change your mind after entering your whole move, take the move back (see Section 1.4).

2.4 Check, Mate, and Draw

When a King is in check, the computer first displays its move as usual. After the move is made, CHECK flashes in the display for a 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 on the board, the computer flashes a mate announcement along with the move for several seconds (e.g., =in 2 for a mate in two moves). The display then goes back to showing the clock.

When a game ends in checkmate, the display flashes MATE (along with the mating move) for a 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, and the 50-move rule and insufficient material. After a draw has oc- curred, the display flashes EnD, EnD:3, EnD:50, or EnD:In (along with the drawing move) for a brief time after the move has been made. The display then goes back to showing the clock.

2.5 Interrupting the ComputerÕs Search

Think the computer is taking too long to move? You can interrupt it any time! Simply press ENTER while the computer is thinking, and it will stop and play the best move it has found so far. This feature can be handy on the higher levels, where the computer can take a long time to move, and on the 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 as you wish!

Note: If you press ENTER at the beginning of a new game, the computer will play White from the top of the board (see Section 5.1).

2.7 Built-In Openings

At the beginning of a game, the computer will often move instantly on many levels. This is because it is playing from memory, using its own built-in “book” of opening chess moves. This book contains thousands of positions, including most major openings and many positions from grandmaster play. If the current board position is in its book, the com- puter plays a response to that position automatically, instead of having to think about the move.

A special feature of your computer’s opening book is its ability to handle transpositions. A transposition occurs when a position reached by a certain set of moves can also be reached when those same moves occur in a different order. The computer’s integrated Automatic Transpo- sition 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 on the OpponentÕs Time

As you play, you may notice that the computer sometimes replies to your moves immediately, even in the middle of games played on the higher levels. This is because the computer thinks on your time, using

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Saitek Expert Travel Chess Check, Mate, and Draw, Interrupting the ComputerÕs Search, Changing Sides with the Computer
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Expert Travel Chess specifications

The Saitek Expert Travel Chess is a remarkable chess set designed for enthusiasts who value both portability and advanced gameplay features. This compact chess set seamlessly blends functionality with modern technology, making it an ideal companion for chess players on the go.

One of the most notable features of the Saitek Expert Travel Chess is its innovative design. The set is lightweight and slim, allowing it to fit easily into a backpack or carry-on luggage. The travel-friendly size does not compromise on playing experience, as the set includes a well-crafted playing board and precision pieces that are comfortable to handle. The set's magnetic chess pieces ensure they stay in place during play, providing a smooth and uninterrupted game, even in less-than-ideal environments such as moving trains or crowded cafés.

The Saitek Expert Travel Chess incorporates advanced technology that appeals to players of all skill levels. One of its hallmark features is the built-in chess tutor. This interactive coach provides hints and tips, allowing beginners to improve their skills while offering challenging gameplay for the more experienced. Players can select from various difficulty levels, making the game accessible and enjoyable for all.

Additionally, the set is equipped with a comprehensive move database that enables players to explore various opening strategies and endings. This feature not only enhances the learning experience but also allows players to analyze past games, improving their tactical understanding.

In terms of usability, the Saitek Expert Travel Chess is designed for convenience. Its intuitive interface simplifies navigating through game options and settings, ensuring a seamless playing experience. It also has a long-lasting battery life, allowing for extended play without the need for constant recharging.

Overall, the Saitek Expert Travel Chess embodies modern technology and traditional gameplay in a portable format. Its unique combination of lightweight design, interactive coaching, and advanced gameplay features makes it a must-have for anyone who loves chess, whether a casual player or an aspiring grandmaster. With its ease of use and innovative characteristics, the Saitek Expert Travel Chess stands out as a stellar choice in the world of portable chess sets.
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