A faster diode, as in something like a 1N4148?

Well, the ULN2003 costs approximatly 10 cents and should cover all parts consisting of drivers 1-7 (I hope). Although there are "differences" in the resistor values and clamping diodes, I feel pretty confident that the drive, once adjusted, will still produce dots.

The LB1256 is rather expensive, single sourced, and sometimes difficult to find. Hence the desire to find something that is easily obtainable.

As for the motor driver portion of the LB1256, yes this will require a few parts (resistors, darlingtons, diode, etc).

I have no size constraints whatsoever. I have lots of room.

don