" (others may suggest you count in binary format across 3 bytes but this then must be converted to base 10 format digits for display."

ANd just in case you decide to go this way - there is a assembly code in my home page

http://www.8052.com/users/RRAGHU/

to do the 24 bit hex to BCD conversion. And if you are taking the count inputs from a limit switch or proximity dont forget the contact debounce. ( Or else your counter will display more than what was manufactured and your client will be TOO HAPPY to see this !)

Good luck

Raghu