Erik,

While you are right that Robert needs to consider this option too, you like to argue that the netto cost of the part solely is too little for making a design decision.

So a couple of arguments, from Robert's point of view:

1. $2 - for 1pc?
2. $2 - over the counter? or in an internet shop, including card transfer charge?
3. $2 - in Montevideo?
4. 128k x8 ISSI - in DIL? (nothing in DIL at ISSI...) -> extra $ for PCB (no protoboard possible)
5. and what about the cost of the time to find a suitable part, to get it, to get somebody to solder it (being non-DIL)? OK, student's time has no cost maybe, but still I would rather solder 2 ICs off-shelf and go for a beer or two :-)

Summa summarum, it may pay off.

Jan Waclawek