RadioReference.com Forums

I'm looking to purchase a Home Patrol scanner that is 2 years old but the owner isn't sure what version or software is in it. He isn't really radio savvy. It does work fine. I've listened to it in his car. Is there a way to tell what software or firmware versions are in it based on the serial number? Or, does it have to be plugged into a computer to "read" it? Also, will the older Home Patrols work in the 700 Mhz. range?
Thanks.