Chess computer "oddity" - it only works half-way

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melcrose
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Chess computer "oddity" - it only works half-way

Post by melcrose »

I purchased a "new" Saitek Kasparov Chess Academy Talking Chess Computer Stock Model K05V for $75 on ebay.

Got it, and the pieces were new and still in the plastic, but I'm not sure the unit itself was. I know it didn't come with the AC adapter as it should.

Anyway, brand new and tested batteries were put in it (correctly!): it would not power up.

The correct power adapter (9v, 300ma, Tip+) was found and plugged it: it powers up plays chess, but no other feature works. No voice (yes, volume is up) .. no anything.

If you go to a tutorial and hit "yes" to begin, it reverts back to a new game of chess. Options can be accessed, and "full voice" and "full coach" can be turned on, but nothing changes: no voice, no coaching, no beeps.

Interestingly, you can hear the speaker "kick on" and off during a power cycle.

It's almost like the extra "stuff" that was the tutorial and all that got fried, leaving behind the chess computer only. Changing the level does appear to change the level the computer plays at, so it's somewhat useful for that.

ANYWAY, anyone ever seen anything like this? I did hit that ACL (static) button on the base of the unit and could clearly feel it punching in and out, no effect. So odd.
melcrose
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Post by melcrose »

Sorry, didn't see a way to edit my earlier message..

Does anyone have a Saitek Kasparov Chess Academy Talking Chess Computer they'd be willing to part with? I love mine, except that it doesn't work. :)

Let me know how much if you have one!

Thanks.
Jeff
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Bryan Whitby
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Post by Bryan Whitby »

Hi Jeff
Where do you live?
Regards
Bryan
melcrose
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Post by melcrose »

middle of Nebraska, USA . .
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Bryan Whitby
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Post by Bryan Whitby »

Pity that, I have a mint Mephisto Chess Academy you could have had if you lived in the UK.
melcrose
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Post by melcrose »

Well, I'd happily pay for the unit, your time, trouble and postage if you'd like. :)
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Bryan Whitby
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Post by Bryan Whitby »

Are you sure there isn't one on the American eBay.
It will cost quite a bit to ship over to the America from England.
Maybe you should just wait for one to appear over there?
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Scally
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Post by Scally »

There's one on the uk eBay, but its £299 !!

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Rare-Saitek-K ... SwcUBYNuAE

Cheers,

Al.
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Bryan Whitby
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Post by Bryan Whitby »

Just counted 5 on the German eBay.
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