Hi Jacek,

yes, the MAX7219 was not the cheapest solution, but not horrible expensive.
It was the way with the minimum count of additional components, exact what it was wanted in the first posting.

I like the MAX7219, because it makes the pcb many times easier. And often I made no pcb, I use an universal pcb and wire it by hand.

Using standard CMOS (HC595)was cheaper but they can only drive 4mA. So you must use additional driver transistors or expensive high efficiency 7-segment LEDs.
And for hobby usage only you can also try to exceed the 4mA limit.


Peter