No problem using the display board in cold weather, the only minor problem is the power cord can become rather stiff. AS far as the manual is concerned you a right it is rather skimpy on details. With the Timy it is relatively easy to set up, with other products like the TAG PTB I had to do it by trial and error. I strongly suggest you write down your parameters once you have them figured out and keep them close by, I keep mine taped to the board.