Hard to tell..
I would think that there is some "Read only memory" tucked away in the
set..

- which would be activated when you add batteries & turn it on..
enabling it to function as advertized..
(" Operating system " of the set )

Kept away from strong magnets, fierce radiation & such, it should be
good for quite some time..


Dan / NYC
( who knows nothing about the manufacture of digital SWR's . .)