Hi. It will definitely need to be cleared. You can only store them for about 2 months before they lose everything. The symptoms you mention are to be expected. You will not be able to prgram it until you have done a RAM clear.
Make sure the key is in PGM mode.
When holding clear, make sure you hold it for long enough while turning the power on. Wait until it has printed before letting go.
If you need more help, please ask your question at www.eposwizard.co.uk
Mark
June 2008