Dan,
The batteries inside the control are for the tool offsets. We've used a 12V Gel cell to replace those for years. The four 1.2 volt Nickel Cadmium batteries inside the U-Stor are the same cell type.
Most people run their U-Stor's at 2400 baud. You can easily punch in a program by hand, just to get started.
Warren
www.uptimecorp.com