Programming a DGT clock may seem complicated the first time. Buttons, menus, time modes, numbers changing… Many players feel a certain insecurity when handling the clock, especially in tournaments, for fear of “breaking something” or leaving it incorrectly configured.
The reality is that DGT clocks are designed to be used again and again, even by people without technical knowledge. The problem is not the clock, but that almost nobody takes the time to calmly understand how it works. In this guide, we’re going to do it step by step, without rushing, explaining what each thing means and why it is done this way.
The goal is not only for you to know how to program a DGT clock, but for you to understand what you are programming, so you don’t always have to depend on someone else.
Before starting: understanding how a DGT clock “thinks”
Before getting into specific buttons, it’s useful to understand something fundamental: a DGT clock is not programmed “blindly”. It always follows a very clear internal logic based on time modes.
When you program a DGT, you are basically deciding:
- how much initial time each player has
- whether there is increment or not
- how many phases the game has
The clock doesn’t do anything strange or automatic. It simply executes what you tell it. That’s why, if something goes wrong, it’s almost always because the chosen mode was not the correct one for the time control you wanted.
Once you understand this, the process stops being intimidating.
Turning on the clock and accessing programming mode
The first step is to turn on the clock and access the settings menu. On most DGT clocks, this is done by holding down the central button or the “set” button for a few seconds.
When entering programming mode, you will see that the clock displays numbers or codes. These codes are not random: they correspond to predefined modes that the clock already comes with from the factory.
This is important because many players try to “invent” a configuration when, in reality, the clock already has the time control they need prepared.
Programming a simple time control without increment
Starting with a simple time control is the best way to get familiar with the clock.
In this type of configuration:
- each player has a fixed amount of time
- nothing is added per move
- the clock simply counts down
This mode is still used in casual games, basic training, or very early school contexts. Programming it is simple and serves as a foundation for understanding the other modes.
Once the initial time is set, the clock is ready to play without further adjustments.
Programming a time control with Fischer increment
Here we enter the most commonly used mode today.
Programming a time control with increment involves two decisions:
- initial time
- seconds of increment per move
For example, a 15+10 means that each player starts with 15 minutes and receives an extra 10 seconds after each move.
On the DGT clock, this process is done by selecting a mode that allows increment and adjusting both values. Once this is done, the clock automatically adds the time after each press.
This is the recommended mode for:
- tournaments
- serious training
- club games
And it is the one you should master the most.
Programming common tournament time controls (90+30, 15+10, blitz)
Many DGT clocks include preconfigured modes for very common time controls. This is a big advantage because it reduces errors.
Time controls such as:
- 90+30
- 15+10
- 5+3
are usually available directly in the menu. Selecting them correctly saves time and avoids confusion, especially in tournaments with many boards.
As a player, it’s a good idea to recognize these modes so you can quickly check if the clock is properly set before starting the game.
Programming games with multiple time phases
In classical tournaments, time phases are sometimes used, for example:
- X moves in a certain amount of time
- then more time is added for the rest of the game
DGT clocks allow you to program this type of time control, although they require a bit more attention.
Here it is especially important to:
- follow the correct configuration order
- carefully verify the values
- not mix phases without increment with phases with increment
This type of setup is usually handled by the arbiter, but as a player it’s very useful to understand it so you know what to expect during the game.
How to reset or unlock a DGT clock
Sometimes, the clock may become “stuck” in a mode you don’t want or show unusual behavior. This is usually due to an incomplete configuration or an accidental press during programming.
Resetting the clock returns the system to a stable state. It does not erase or damage the clock; it simply restores the internal logic. Knowing how to do this saves you a lot of stress, especially before a round.
It is a safe operation and specifically designed for these situations.
Changing the batteries correctly and safely
Although it may seem like a minor detail, changing the batteries correctly is essential. A bad replacement can cause:
- loss of configuration
- failures during the game
- unexpected shutdowns
It is always advisable to:
- use new, high-quality batteries
- replace both batteries at the same time
- check operation before starting
In tournaments, many problems are avoided simply by checking this in advance.
Final checks before starting a game
Before pressing the clock for the first time, it’s recommended to do a quick mental check:
- is the initial time correct?
- is the increment as expected?
- does the clock subtract and add time correctly?
This 10-second check can save you a 10-minute argument later.
Common mistakes when programming DGT clocks
Most mistakes are not technical, but human. The most common are:
- confusing increment with delay
- choosing a similar but not identical mode
- not checking the configuration before starting
With practice, these mistakes disappear quickly.
Conclusion
Programming a DGT clock is not difficult, but it does require understanding the basic logic of time in chess. Once you overcome that step, the clock becomes a reliable and very convenient tool.
Knowing how to program it gives you autonomy as a player, helps you avoid problems in tournaments, and allows you to train under real conditions. It is a small skill, but with a huge impact on your competitive experience.
