Another solution is to use any PIC with an EUSART - Enhanced USART - (example 18F2525, 18F2620 etc)
Yes I would totally agree that this would be the best option as a hardware solution. And certainly would be the way to go, especially considering the additional RAM, Flash Memory, and EEprom capacities that come with it. Also for only about $1.00 more than the 18F252 (in quantities of 25 pieces from Digi-Key), it certainly is a bargain.

However, please bear in mind that although I have used an 18F252 as my text model, the software only approach to Auto-Baud detection can be applied to any PIC having the standard USART. For some this may be the way to go, especially with a large inventory of chips on hand, or where using an alternative less capable chip makes sense from a monentary standpoint.

Melanie I do have a question to ask of you on the 18F2525/18F2620 chips about some rumors floating around about some quirky issues with this family. I have not worked with this chip myself, and am wondering if any of the rumors are, or were true, but now corrected?

As always, thanks for your great insights and freely given experience,