Electronic Chess at its Finest
The Novag Star Rub is a superb example of electronic chess. Whilst the Excalibur NY22 has beaten most of it’s rivals into a cocked hat with functionality, the Ruby still wins through with it’s slimline shape and it’s well thought out graphics. The model is one of the best of Novags lines and wins over it’s rivals through size and sophistication - many claim it still to be the best examples of electronic chess available.
Sadly the days of the Ruby appear numbered, unless it’s parent redesigns elements of the model to voefcome the restrictions of the new RoHS regulations. Pronounced “Ross” or “Rohas”, RoHS is a European Directive regarding ‘Restriction of Hazardous Substances’. It prevents new electrical and electronic equipment containing more than agreed levels of hazardous substance from coming onto the market. So far (Feb 2008) the Ruby is the only member of Novag’s family that has failed the regulation, so no new units can be manufactured until the company can demonstrate compliance. Come on Novag.