To chip an ECU is this always a pay for hardware thing or can you hook up a computer and download the necessaries?

No, right now you have to have the chip added to the ecu.

Revo and GIAC have newer technology that is "flashable", but Revo's is not end user modifiable and GIAC's is still in prototype right now.

with revo you can control timing range,high boost,low boost ,set for performance,stock, or anti theft,
for about$350 more with the sps3 controler.
Also if there is an upgrade to the softwhere your instaler can add it to your car whenever.