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Definition of Analog Chess Timer

Players use analog chess timers in tournaments and other games. They also use digital chess timers, which are electronic. Analog timers drop a "flag" when the time has expired.

History
- Before the first digital chess timer was invented in 1973, analog timers were the only devices available for keeping time at tournaments.
Function
- An analog chess timer keeps a time control that is based on mechanical buttons. It is able to keep simple time controls for tournament chess games, but not incremental or delayed ones. An incremental time control adds an amount of time to every move, while a delayed time control waits a period of time before beginning a player's clock.
Benefits
- Analog chess timers are simple and reliable. When problems do occur, they are easier to repair than digital ones.
Drawbacks
- It can be hard to tell the precise time remaining on an analog chess timer. It is difficult to synchronize the two clocks on the timer as well as the flags that indicate expired time. It is also difficult to match the clocks with the flag settings.
Significance
- Analog chess timers remain in use in chess clubs and some tournaments because many people prefer them for their simplicity and reliability.

Chess & Checkers