problem is you will probably have to contact the manufacturer to get a replacement as it is programmed
if your very very lucky you might be able to find someone with the same device, pull the chip, read it and burn a new copy.
BUT there is copy protection that can be turned on in the chip when programed so you probably cant even read it.
I do have a PIC programmer but havent used it in years.
Thanks for the information Sandbagger. Unfortunately, it is almost impossible for the seller to understand the questions I have asked him, as his English is extremely poor. However, for $7.50 (includes postage) I have ordered a new kit and will simply use that chip. I will also attempt to provide some input protection.
I checked and see there are others selling the same kit for even less, so I may contact them for another backup.
Cheers and thanks again Gents.
Steve