Richard:

Thanks for the kind comments on my IC718 article.

The speech chip does not come with the radio, and must be bought separately. 
So, if you are buying new, then the answer is clear.

If you are buying a used 718, I would think the owner should know whether 
the chip is in there or not.

In addition, there is a speech button on the rig that will work if the chip 
is already in there.  I can't remember exactly where that button is, but it 
is very clearly visible to anyone who looks at the radio.

I hope this helps, and if you do get an IC718, you will find that it is a 
great little rig!

I had mine for quite a few years, and loved it!

The only reason I gave it up was to do a trade for a more accessible Kenwood 
rig several years ago--namely, the TS480.

Please keep us posted, and let us know if we can be of additional help.

73 from Tom Behler: KB8TYJ

----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Richard Wells" <[log in to unmask]>
To: <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: Wednesday, July 13, 2011 4:25 PM
Subject: Speech For Icom 718


Hello, I read Tom Beller's excellent article on the Icom 718. I assume
that the radio does not come with the UT-102 chip installed. I found
two in stock at http://www.radio-mart.net/Icom-UT-102.html and need to
know what is involved in installing this. Also let me know if there is
a quick way to find out if this radio already has one installed. My
thanks to all of you for the wonderful and helpful resource that you
have become.

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