I've been using the max7219 to control 7-segment LED displays. They're nice, and easy to use, but they're expensive (around $10).
I discovered today that there is a cheap alternative: the AS1106 and AS1107 from Austria Micro Systems. They appear to be functionally identical to the max7219 and max7221, respectively. And, you can buy them from Newark for $4 in qty 1. Sweet.
I've ordered some samples, so we'll see how they work out...
