I used to be quite active on the iOptron group.
here is the link to the Mini Tower group.
http://tech.groups.yahoo.com/group/Mini_Tower/
I've had my MT since before they were even introduced into the country, and the battery in my handset is still going strong.
I think it may be the firmware, as suggested. (I've never updated that either, so can't help you with that)
Balancing, I've only ever put the counter weight at the very end where the notch is. To balance your scope, hold it by the dove tail bar, and work out were the center of balance is, then mark it with a niko pen so you know where to lock her in.
I really hope you get it sorted before next week.
I'll be giving my MT a work out then too. ( It's a beaut little mount)