  Numerical analysis of the simplest odd-numbered system of coupled quantum
dots reveals an interplay between magnetic ordering, charge fluctuations and
the tendency of itinerant electrons in the leads to screen magnetic moments.
The transition from local-moment to molecular-orbital behavior is visible in
the evolution of correlation functions as the inter-dot coupling is increased.
Resulting novel Kondo phases are presented in a phase diagram which can be
sampled by measuring the zero-bias conductance. We discuss the origin of the
even-odd effects by comparing with the double quantum dot.
