Just got an Used Sony camera - need help

Archived from groups: rec.photo.digital (More info?)

I just got a Sony cybershot DSC-F55V.
The person who gave it to me got it from Japan a few years ago.
This is my first digital camera.

Can someone help me out with this:
1. I did not get a manual, I did some searches on the web, but could
not find the manual.
Does anyone know where I can get it?
I went to:
http://www.user-service-manuals.com/Sony/DSC.shtml
They only had F55 and F55E, but no F55V.
Samething with http://www.henrys.com/manuals/

2. I was told the battery is not so good anymore, is there a place
where I can buy a new one? Does it have to be a "Sony" battery, or do
they sell generic ones?

Thanks