View source for Talk:Standard Docking Computer/@comment-2601:246:C700:7800:24B2:FDB9:3336:BA3B-20180212032439

I have never used a docking computer.  Not once.  The first 2 or 3 times with the small starting ship.  I had to struggle.  Now - I can land.  No problem.  The heavier the ship the better the landing is.  Cobra III is okay, but takes a little more concentration.  The Viper Mark IV is easier.  There IS one big drawback about docking without a computer.  There is no room for error inside the big indoor stations.  The toughest are the docking numbers closest to the entrance.  Like dock #1.  You only have a few seconds to look for the right landing pad.  #43 #44 are at the far end.  Don't lower the landing gear until you reach the landing ramp.  Nose up & then nose down real quick. Then stop (key X).  You can back up slowly if need be - BUT - you  are on a time limit.  You have to watch the timer closely.  Only once I was doing so lousy at landing I turned around & left to try again.  The small landings (small stations) you can just fly off & try the landing again.  The hard part is finding the landing pad you have been assigned to in the  dark.  There is a training thing you can take on landings.  The small ship you are forced to start with you can crash & it won't cost you a dime.  After that - you have to get it right the first time.  I have had landing experiences with the starter ship.  Cobra III & Viper Mk IV.  I haven't gotten to the really big ships yet. Those - you are given access to the bigger landing pads.  Remember - it is important you get the landing right the first time inside the big stations.  I'll not use a docking computer!  I don't like the way they jerk you & your ship around.  If you get into a fire fight with a hostile ship, & your docking computer can be damaged or completely smashed.  What are you going to do then?