Webcam vs Stockfish FAQ
This page explains how to prepare the board, calibrate the webcam, and start a game against Stockfish. The playing mode stays restricted to the member area.
Before you start
- Use a stable board, good lighting, and a fixed webcam.
- Keep all 64 squares visible.
- Place all pieces on the initial position before calibration.
- Sign in to the member area to play.
How it works
1. Open the member mode
Open Webcam vs Stockfish from the member area.
2. Start the webcam
Allow camera access and frame the full board.
3. Choose your setup
Select your color, real board orientation, and Stockfish level.
4. Run calibration
Follow the prompts, move the requested pawns, then put them back.
5. Start the game
Each detected move is validated locally and sent to the backend.
6. Replay the engine move
Replay on the real board the move announced by Stockfish.
Frequently asked questions
Why does move detection fail?
Common causes are framing, changing light, shadows, or a moving webcam.
Retry calibration more slowly with a stable image.
What does board synchronization mean?
After the Stockfish move, the app waits for you to reproduce it on the physical board.
Otherwise the next detection can stay blocked.
Can I play without being a member?
No. The FAQ is public, but the playing mode is restricted to members.
What is manual correction for?
It lets you enter a UCI move if a detection was missed.
Can I download the game?
Yes, you can download the generated PGN from the member interface.