We're not too keen on providing any improvements to the current version of playing against the computer, since it's going to go away with the launch of v3 which introduces a much more robust computer that doesn't require java.
You should be able to try out v3's computer by clicking on the link at the bottom of the page which says "Try the new Chess.com!" You should have more success there.
I am trying to play specific openings against the computer. Once i get the Java engine up there are several problems.
1) the board size is not adjustable, much too small. also, java does not save my default settings for play sounds and type of opieces.
2) switching sides to black with white to move; the computer does not move.
3) when i select new game the computer does reverts to first move of the game rather than pre-selected opening pgn.
Any suggestions? This seems like an impractical tool for studying openings