My 'beginner level, class E and lower' chess computers

Novag Chess Champion MK I

     

Novag Chess Champion Delta-1

Mephisto Solar King

Year: 1996

TEC Schachcomputer

Year: 1981
Programmer: Peter Jennings
CPU: 6504 @1Mhz
ROM: 5Kb
Elo level: 1019 (1156 FIDE)
CMhz: 1
Rperf: 60%
Square size: 0.82"

Peter Jennings has been a pioneer of chess programming for micro-computers, with his famous MicroChess program, developped as early as 1976; it will encounter a large commercial success. It was initially made available for the Kim-1 (6502@1Mhz) as a listing in hexadecimal machine code, to be manually punched by the user, and later on provided on audio tape; the program offered three playing levels (3, 10 or 100 seconds average per move); the faster levels just disabling part of the code. It then did not manage castling, "en passant" capture, nor pawn promotion; in order to fit the available memory (circa 1.1Kb)! On another hand, the manual did provide details about the program logic, presenting it as a basis, the hobbyist could extend; should he own a computer with more available RAM than the KIM-1 had. These restrictions were to be removed with the 1.5 version for the TRS-80 (still limited to only three playing levels) then the 2.0 version for the PET Commodore and the Apple II (with eight playing levels). This latest 2.0 version will as well be integrated in the following chess computers: Commodore Chessmate (1978), Novag Chess Champion MK II (1979), and TEC Schachcomputer (1981). I played a lot with MicroChess 1.5 on my TRS-80, I fairly couldn't not add it to my collection. Well, which one should I choose, then? The Commodore Chessmate is definitely too ugly; I already own many Novag devices; the TEC was my obvious best choice. I much like its look, reminiscent of the PET Commodore.  By the way, powered by a 6502@1Mhz, once running the MicroChess 2.0 program, the PET offered actually the same game as the TEC did, except for the graphical display of course (I checked the identical moves with a PET emulator!). The three clones (Chessmate, MK II and TEC) have a tiny openings book available, and play electronic tones with each hit key or displayed character. Fortunately, the sound level of the TEC is not too high, as these sounds cannot be disabled with any of the three clones. In addition to the appreciated PET-like design, the TEC Schachcomputer has the advantage of providing a small integrated chessboard (the squares are roughly 0.8 inches large; a passive board of course, as the moves need to be input using from-square and to-square coordinates) and it includes its own power adapter, letting it run directly from the mains. The keys are pleasant to press, with a very clear catch, and the large LEDs display layout provides perfect legibility: some far more recent chess computers will achieve definitely worse. The playing strength is the one of MicroChess: really weak, it is mostly a sparring partner one uses to train himself how to win at chess... Nevertheless, this program is a must have! I got it as a Christmas gift, it was offered on German eBay for €35. 

Applied Concept Boris Diplomat

Year: 1979
Programmer: David Lindsay
CPU: F8 3850 @1Mhz
ROM: 2.5Kb
Elo level: 1035 (1167 FIDE)
CMhz: 0.25
Rperf: 66%
Square size: 0.39"

When I received the shipped Boris Diplomat, bought for €30 (complete, but without the original user's manual and packaging), I doubted the parcel would contain anything. With no inserted batteries, it is definitely light weighted! It has been the very first travel electronic chessboard (not a pocket computer, though). It can run a few hours on batteries (but a connector for a mains adapter is as well available), and it features a small chessboard (a passive one, the player inputs his  moves using the keyboard). The tiny chessmen hold their position with pegs; aside the chessboard two rows offer additional slots to keep the sixteen first captured pieces. Beyond this number, one can temporarily keep the next ones using the clear casing, turned upside down. The bezel-shapped display is smartly designed, easily readable and relatively well protected. The red LED character set is indeed small, but really luminous, and so legible enough. As its elder brother Boris, the Diplomat can display a full rank of the chessboard squares, but using a simplified character set, less easily identified. Fortunately, the keys labelled 1 to 6 (potentially used to edit the chessboard position) are as well tagged with the pieces symbols, and act as an aide-memoire. This less advanced display also led to remove the sarcastic comments the Boris used to write; however the level setting keeps on using a timer, and the playing style and playing level of both devices are much similar. As with the Boris, one can miss the absence of any book of openings, resulting in a slow game as soon as the very beginning, a lack of variation unless changing the thinking time (despite some randomness applied to moves achieving equal scores), and a game often developped outside best practice. The real asset the Diplomat provides, with regards to the Boris, is the easy way you can get it ready for a quick game!

 

Applied Concept Boris

Year: 1978
Programmer: David Lindsay
CPU: F8 3850 @1Mhz
ROM: 2.5Kb
Elo level: 1045 (1175 FIDE)
CMhz: 0.25
Rperf: 67%
Square size: 1"
 
A historical milestone! I could not fail to get the immodest challenger of the first Chess Challengers (Boris is King!). It is so vintage with its unusual form factor featuring a walnut box, and its red LEDs display, reminding the ones used by programmable Texas Instruments calculators at this time (TI-57, 58, 59). It is able to display the chessboard row after row, making the position verification process, and update as well, outstandingly comfortable at that time, a lot more than the tedious square by square process featured in a CC7. Symbolic display of pieces is an asset as well, compared to numeral coding used by Chess Challengers at the same time. Playing level is set with a timer, to the nearest second, which guarantees a complete use of granted thinking time, with no overstep. On the other hand, thinking is stopped with no regards to the analysis completion. The Fairchild F8 powering it is definitely not a fast CPU, and playing level is quite low. Boris enlives its games with occasional text speech, more or less funny, streaming across the display during its thinking time. The messages seem to be chosen randomly, they are not consistent with the game position. I got this computer as a Christmas gift, it was offered for €100 on French website 'le bon coin'.

 

Saitek Calculator Chess

Year: 1992

Programmer: Craig Barnes
CPU: S3C7 @4Mhz (?)
ROM: 2Kb
Elo level: 1088 (1208 FIDE)
CMhz: 0.39
Rperf : 68%
Square size: 0.33"

An atypic device in my collection, I usually avoid chess computers requiring batteries. But its tiny chessboard is so charming, and I got it for €15! I wanted a Craig Barnes authored device, he most often seconded Julio Kaplan as a programmer. The 2K program is definitely limited, especially regarding its unusual setting for playing levels, using letter and numeral. The letter sets the primary search depth, the numeral has an effect on the endgame search depth, when less material speeds up the search. Proceeding by trial and error I assessed the 'B' levels to be too slow and too variable to fit my 15 s/move standard, even using 'B1'. As a consequence I use the 'A8' level which plays rather fast while using more time during the endgame. A matter of balance... The microcontroller model is not announced, I guess it to be probably close to, or similar to a 4bits Samsung S3C7 fitting well a pocket calculator, providing advanced features to manage the LCD display. Craig Barnes authored some other chess computers equipped with this microcontroller series (Mephisto Solar King and Solar Star) showing similar specifications (RAM, ROM, clock frequency); and Mephisto produced as well the Calculator Chess renamed Schachcomputer 64. Thus a S3C7 series microcontroller or similar is plausible, and is consistent with the playing strength. The gadget-like mini-chessboard can be completely pulled out, making available a small drawer at its back, useful to store the pieces captured during the game, to avoid losing some (a high risk!):  

Novag Chess Champion Chess Partner 2000

Year: 1980
Programmer: Mike Johnson
CPU: F8 3850 @2.8Mhz
ROM: 4Kb
Elo level: 1092 (1211 FIDE)
CMhz: 0.7
Rperf: 66%
Square size: 0.98"

This electronic chessboard deserves attention as it is the first Novag/Scisys (both brands sold it, just after being splitted apart) to offer an integrated sensor board (push sensitive squares). Nevertheless, it does not break itself of the calculator form factor used with previous models, persisting in handling input-output with algebraic coordinates. So, no LEDs to display its moves; the player continues reading the code to be able to execute the computer's moves; and pushing the corresponding squares only provides an error control. Conversely, pushing the squares to enter a player's move only inputs the coordinates, then, once satisfied with the display, the player still needs to push 'Enter' to commit his move. The squares are, so, mostly experienced as a keyboard extension, compared to a Sensory 8 for example (launched same year on the market, just a few months before). At that time, a computer was still far from being common, and you could be proud of using a protocol having all the characteristic features of computers. At the same time, adding '2000' to goods or companies names was higly in vogue, and provided a taste of ultra-modern prospects. The CP2000 is much typical from this period and, so, desirable despite its flaws: the sensor board not sensitive enough (in addition to the rather clumsy protocol), the unsuccessful design (massive shaping, board crossbars, color), and the playing weakness. The 4K program is nevertheless slightly stronger than the 2K one used in the travel device from the same author (Pocket Chess / Chess Traveller, launched same year), benefitting from a few stored opening moves and a few code enhancements for the endgame. The weak computing power of the F8 (despite being hotted-up to 2.8Mhz) however limits the result. This device is not rare, it is easily found at moderate price, but often the blank keys show ugly yellow spots - so I awaited a nicely preserved one to enter it into my collection - I bought it €32 on German eBay (without original packaging). The Novag brand is labelled on the mains adaptor, while Scisys is printed on user's manual last page.

Scisys Chess Intercontinental Traveler

Year: 1982
Programmer: Mike Johnson
CPU: F8 3870 @3Mhz
ROM: 2Kb
Elo level: 1120 (1232 FIDE)
CMhz: 0.75
Rperf: 67%
Square size: 0.47"

This tiny 2Kb program from Mike Johnson has been widely sold starting from 1980, labelled as SciSys Chess Traveler (as well branded Acetronic Chess Traveller or Prinztronic Chess Traveller in the UK), Novag Chess Champion Pocket Chess, and Tandy Computerized Chess Game. Its cheap cost and travel form factor were tempting assets for a starter in computer chess world. I thus wished to add one to my collection, in order to represent this line of products! But as a matter of taste, I didn't like much the design of the computer, too colorful and disadvantaged by the protuberance of the big red LEDs display. I so waited for an opportunity to buy this more recent version, featuring a more discreet LCD display, which is more smoothly integrated in the design; a significantly higher clock speed, and a slightly enhanced software. On another hand, this Intercontinental Traveler revealed more difficult to find out, ads I spotted were all from the UK, where I finally bought it (including original packaging, mint condition) for €6.37 on eBay (I ended as the only bidder). Unlike the undermentioned Fidelity Mini Sensory, the holes in the chessboard only provide holding of the pluggable chessmen; moves are entered using the basic algebraic coordinates system. The software has no openings book, but nevertheless proceeds with quite correct development. Once middle game is reached, it lacks inspiration and is tactically weak, showing quite poor reactions facing threats - these drawbacks of course getting worse during endgame. One cannot expect wonders from a 2K program!

Fidelity Mini Sensory Chess Challenger + CAC

Year: 1981
Programmer: Ron Nelson
CPU: 8049 @6Mhz
ROM: 2+4Kb
Elo level: 1133 (1241 FIDE)
CMhz: 0.46
Rperf: 70%
Square size: 0.48"

This small travel chessboard entered my collection for three reasons: its form factor different from others in the Fidelity family, its processor distinctive from Z80 based chess computers designed by Ron Nelson, and last but not least a very attractive price, €35 on French "le bon coin". And for this price, a CAC module was included (Challenger Advanced Chess) and... a Sensory 8 as well (see next category). All this stuff including original packages, user manuals and the Sensory 8 mains adaptor, which can also be used to power the Mini Sensory. Featuring only 2Kb ROM providing four playing levels, the basic Mini Sensory upgrades to the six levels of a Chess Challenger Sensory 6 thanks to the CAC module. This 4K module also provides a small openings book (same as the Sensory 6's one), the ability to take two half moves back or to display a hint move, and pondering on opponent's think time. As far as I know it is the first device sold by Fidelity to be able to. It is not a permanent brain feature, as the program does not dig further than the level that has been previously set; but it occasionnally speeds the pace pleasantly up. Once the CAC module inserted, this program is clearly very close to the Sensory 6's one, thus... weak.

VEB Schachcomputer SC 2

Year: 1981
Programmer: Ron Nelson
CPU: U880 @2.46Mhz
ROM: 9Kb
Elo level: 1141 (1247 FIDE)
CMhz: 0.83
Rperf: 68%
Square size: 0.87"

Erich Honecker's chess computer! He owned one, now kept in Chemnitz games museum. It is a rustic copy of Fidelity Electronic's Chess Challenger 10C, featuring a slightly fitted version of Ron Nelson's program, running on a processor which is itself an East-German copy of Z80. The massive design made prominent by the thick bakelite casing, and the in-box mains power adaptor, result in a 2.2kg device weight. The keyboard is large as well, but provides an excellent feeling, the best ever amongst all my chess computers (keys trigger reed switches). A singularity to point out, the 'Check' (Schach) and 'Mate' (Matt) LEDs: Check lit notifies the SC 2 is threatening your king, while Mate announces the loss of the SC 2 ('I Lose' with the CC10). To announce its matting victory, the SC 2 display blinks. Another peculiarity, assuming you use some time before entering your move, the SC 2 calls you to order with a beep (same behavior as the one of the CC Voice, who periodically announces 'enter your move' or 'your move'). According to Rüdiger Worbs, co-author of next RFT chess computers (Chess-Master and Chess-Master Diamond), the SC 2 costed 3 months of an usual GDR wage and roughly 1000 units were built. I bought mine €25 on French 'le bon coin' website, in working order, without original box nor manual.

Fidelity Chess Challenger 10

Year: 1978
Programmer: Ron Nelson
CPU: Z80 @4Mhz
ROM: 4Kb
Elo level: 1167 (1267 FIDE)
CMhz: 1.35
Rperf: 68%
Square size: 0.87"

It is truly pure nostalgia that made me decide, quite late (after 10 years collecting!), to purchase a Chess Challenger 10 (10 stands for ten levels of play). Sure, I did not lack variants of Ron Nelson's program, already present in my collection with the Chess Challengers 6, 7, 8, Mini Sensory, and not to forget the East German SC2 copy. But it is the chess computer that initially did "inoculate" me, more than 40 years ago, with this passion. So, I finally got aware I missed it... Its appearance is much more luxurious than the one of all the other Chess Challengers, featuring a brushed-metal looking board set with solid walnut, with its nice little boxwood chessmen that look close to the Champion Sensory ones (displayed within next category; the chess pieces were most probably provided by Chavet, at least in France where the Chess Challengers were distributed by Rexton). It is a very nice article, providing a great pleasure to play with! However, the skills level is weak; I translate a report from the French Europe-Echecs magazine, October 1979 edition (you might want to read more on Blitzchess' amazing website): 'The other points that I had mentioned concerning CC 10 and the others seem to be confirmed by the tests of all the users: tendency to rush on the material, lack of sense of danger, irregular performance, extreme weakness in the endgame...'. Nevertheless, let's point out it is the first chess computer to reach the market with a (small) openings book. The first sold devices got immediate complains from their users, as the program nearly never castled, but Fidelity Electronics did remediate this weakness in a very short delay; it is the usual practice to name those fixed computers "B" version, while the very first are named "A" version. Mine is a "10B", thus apt to castling, and that is fine! (it is revealed after few played games, and can be confirmed using a test, thanks to a slight difference within the openings book - as no visible information is available on the computer itself). I bought it complete, in its original plastic attaché case, with the exception of the user manual (a printed copy of a scanned PDF); the price was €95 on eBay (Mondial Relay €4.99 shipment included, so the purchase price for the computer was €90.01). Of course it is a bit expensive, but cheap ones (you may find some ranging around €30 to 50) all displayed redhibitory defects to my opinion (non working, missing pawns, poor cosmetic aspect,...). Well, I was keen on not being disppointed!

Will you play with me? ...this is what this likeable Knight seems to tell you.

Conic Computer Chess

Year: 1981
Programmer: Stephen Chen
CPU: 6504 @1Mhz
ROM: 4Kb
Elo level: 1179 (1276 FIDE)
CMhz: 1
Rperf: 70%
Square size: 1.2"

I purchased this chess computer (€90, complete with its mains adapter, user manual and original packaging) mainly with regards to its eccentric playing system, based on pieces that can be plugged in, and one diod per square. While plug-in pieces are common for small travel chess computers, the Conic definitely does not belong to this category: featuring more than 14" long, more than 11" wide, and close to 2.2" thick, and only mains to power it, indeed this is a tabletop computer, and rather an imposing one. The male metal jacks under the chessmen are not so for stability, rather for detection thanks to electrical connection in the sockets featured in the center of each square. It is so a rather crude alternative ("tracer board") to systems named "sensory board" offered by some other brands, such as Fidelity Electronics. The operation is not so convincing, due to several reasons: handling is rather unnatural and slow (you need to use a bit of  strength to pull the pieces out, then you need to accurately aim the target socket); the software sometimes misreads the signals (legal move not acknowledged so, triggering the flickering of the relative LEDs, requiring to move back the piece to its initial position before successfully entering the same move again); requirement to confirm your move by pressing the "Enter" key (this reminds the Novag/Scisys Chess Partner 2000 operation mode). The move signals misreading can happen if the player is plugging in or pulling out the chessmen too slowly, and is unlikely to happen using straightforward and fast handling. On another hand, this system looks to be very sturdy and long-lasting, alike the whole device! Plastic is nice, which is no surprise knowing that Conic has been fonded thru diversification of an initial business of plastic casings molding for electronic devices. Only three chess computers were produced by this company, over a short period of time (in addition to the present Computer Chess: the 1979 Master I, and the 1982 Korchnoi). Without sure evidences, the author of these three programs appears to be Stephen Chen, named as so with the experimental version "Conic X" participation to the 1981 WMCCC (World Microcomputer Chess Championship). The Conic Korchnoi is supposed to be a close derivative to this Conic X. The assumed author is as well listed in Bill Hall's page dedicated to chess programming pionneers. Worth pointing out: the Conic Computer Chess (model 7012) introduced here was also distributed under the other brands and  names Conic Tracer 7012, Conic Electronic Chess 7012,  Conic Sensory H-20, Hanimex Computer Chess HGM 1200 (Germany), and Westrak Computer Chess CC1 (UK).

Picture showing the side drawers and the 0.6" metal jacks under the chessmen.