If you don't want gadgets then adding manual azimuth setting circles to the Dob base and an altitude scale will help to get you into the right part of the sky to find a particular target. For this to work you will need to:
- Set the Dob up on level ground
- Set the Dob up so it points at True North (not Magnetic North) - buy a sighting compass to make this easier.
- Have a planetarium package loaded onto a smart phone, iPod or iPad.
- Work out your Lat/Long, time, date and the software will constantly update the Az/Alt for all the targets in the night sky based on your location.
There is a thread on IIS where manual setting circles are offered by a fellow member for free.
http://www.iceinspace.com.au/forum/s...etting+circles
Collimation takes a little time to get comfortable with, but it does become easy. I use a small hole drilled in the centre of the focuser dust cap and a simple laser collimating tool to achieve alignment. It will only take a minute or two when you get used to it.
If you get rid of the 12" Dob you might want it back.