dkeating

Hi All I'm a bit of a mechanical novice (but keen to learn more) and just bought a 1997 Subaru Forester Turbo from Japan. On the dashboard is a control panel with a digital display, an adjustment knob, 4 buttons and the words "Electronic Valve Timer". Unfortunately the car came without an English Manual. I'm completely stumped as to what the thing does or how to make any adjustments or what any adjustments might do. I'm pretty sure it's a modification to the car. Can anyone put me in the know? Also, I was advised that if the car doesn't have a turbo timer, that I should let the car run for 5-10 minutes after parking. What is a turbo timer and if I don't have one is the above procedure necessary? If anyone is able to shed any light on the above for me, it would be much appreciated. Daniel