Actually, I'm already using the MAX7219, because it does save so much work and there are easily-available libraries to drive it.? The reason I liked the display I'm using is that it's the right size (about 1-1/2" / 35mm wide), and has some separate indicator LEDs built in.? If they do run out, I'll just plant some smaller 4-digit displays directly on the board, along with some separate indicators.? This is all inside a chassis anyway, used for setup, configuration, and calibration, so it doesn't need to meet up with a fancy front panel.
One of the advantages of providing niche products is that they're not particularly sensitive to component pricing; most of the unit price goes to amortize the original engineering.? In most cases, there simply isn't a competitive product available, and other ways of accomplishing the customer's job are far more expensive, so everybody wins.
Thanks for the pointer to this display, though - having a couple of these around for quick knock-together projects could be pretty handy!
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Mark Moulding
