2.2 Special Chess Moves

Please note the following, in regard to certain chess moves. Captures: Captures are shown with an x, as in ıPa7xb6.

En Passant: In this type of capture, displayed with an EP after the capturing move, the computer reminds you to remove the captured pawn by flashing it. Press the pawn to remove it from the board.

Castling: After the King has been moved, the Rook will flash. Make the indicated Rook move on the board to complete the castling maneuver. Kingside castling is displayed as O-O, and Queenside castling is displayed as O-O-O.

Pawn Promotion:

•When you promote a pawn, first press the pawn on its from square, as usual. The display then changes to show the available promotion pieces (Q R B N). To promote to a Queen, simply press the to square to complete your move. To underpromote to a Rook, Bishop, or Knight, press one of the displayed promotion symbols. The display will confirm briefly (e.g., Prom: rook). Press the to square to complete the promotion, and the piece will automatically change on the board. Note: If you change your mind about the promotion piece before pressing the to square, simply press one of the other symbols.

•When the computer promotes a pawn, it indicates its move, along with the promoted piece, as in ıPh2-h1/Q.

2.3Illegal/Incorrect Moves

Your computer knows all the rules of chess— and it will never cheat! If you attempt to make an illegal move, a high-pitched double beep will alert you. This will occur, for instance, if you press an illegal from or to square, an incorrect piece or color, or an invalid game key.

If you press an illegal to square, the display will simply continue to indicate the square the piece came from. To continue, move your piece to a legal square. If you press a from square, but decide not to make that move, press that same square again to cancel the input. If you change your mind after entering your whole move, retract the move as described in Section 6.

2.4 Check, Mate, and Draw

Whenever a King is in check, the computer will display Check briefly after the move is made. If the computer discovers a forced mate, it will briefly show a mate announcement (e.g., Mate in 3). When a game ends in checkmate, the computer will either congratu- late you or express its condolences, depending on whether you’ve

ENGLISH

7

Page 6 Page 8
Page 7
Image 7
Saitek Maestro Travel Chess Computer manual Special Chess Moves, Pawn Promotion, Check, Mate, and Draw
Page 6 Page 8

Maestro Travel Chess Computer specifications

The Saitek Maestro Travel Chess Computer is a compact and powerful device designed for chess enthusiasts who crave the convenience of playing on the go. With its sleek design and robust features, the Maestro caters to both novice players and seasoned masters alike.

One of the standout features of the Saitek Maestro is its remarkable playing strength, which is attributed to advanced AI algorithms. The computer can challenge users at various difficulty levels, making it adaptable to the user's skill level. It offers over 100 playing levels, ensuring players can continuously improve their game without feeling overwhelmed.

Portability is a key characteristic of the Maestro. Weighing in at just a few ounces, it easily fits into a pocket or bag, making it an ideal companion for travel. The device is powered by a long-lasting battery, ensuring hours of uninterrupted play without the need for frequent recharging. An optional AC adapter further enhances convenience for those preferring to use it indoors.

The user interface is designed for ease of use, featuring a clear LCD display that shows move history, timer, and current position. The intuitive controls allow users to input their moves swiftly, providing an enjoyable playing experience. The built-in feature of move annotations offers players valuable insights and analysis, helping them recognize patterns and improve their strategies.

Another significant technology integrated into the Saitek Maestro is its adaptive learning capability. As players engage more frequently, the computer adjusts its difficulty based on the player's skill level. This feature keeps the game challenging yet approachable, maintaining a balance that encourages continuous learning.

The Maestro also includes a variety of game modes, such as timed games, classical chess, and tournaments. Additionally, players can activate a hint function that provides suggestions for optimal moves, enhancing the learning experience.

With its combination of advanced technology, user-friendly design, and portability, the Saitek Maestro Travel Chess Computer is an excellent choice for chess enthusiasts seeking to refine their skills or simply enjoy a game while traveling. Its reputation for reliability and efficiency makes it a standout option for both casual players and serious competitors alike.
Top Page Image Contents