1.) Thank you... I always get confused when I read 'matrix'.. 
2.) Is there a specific search term I can use to find these 'commandable' led STRIPS at/under?
3.) I saw you give the MAX7221 chip +5v... and you also use an rSet/iSet resistor to set the upper limit of the led threshold..
but am missing the connection how this works.. vs something like where the Arduino can only give xxmA per pin.. and other do the same.. or even tieing them together only gives you xxxmA output..
Ive read/seen it enough to understand I need to at least ask or address this to try and understand before I get too far in and be SOL! =)
so no matter 1 led or all 64 (or even 128) leds are 'on'... theres no problem?
I think maybe you mean this chart in the datasheet?
Table 11. RSET vs. Segment Current and
LED Forward Voltage
| vLed(v) | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Iseg(mA) | 1.5 | 2.0 | 2.5 | 3.0 | 3.5 |
| 40 | 12.2 | 11.8 | 11.0 | 10.6 | 9.69 |
| 30 | 17.8 | 17.1 | 15.8 | 15.0 | 14.0 |
| 20 | 29.8 | 28.0 | 25.9 | 24.5 | 22.6 |
| 10 | 66.7 | 63.7 | 59.3 | 55.4 | 51.2 |
but I read this... what is defined as a 'segment' (8 leds?)
The
MAX7219/MAX7221’s maximum recommended segment
current is 40mA. For segment current levels
above these levels, external digit drivers will be needed.
so only 5mA form the MAX7221 chip to each led? (if I had all on?)
Your probably right I am going 'too much' into it.. just trying to understand and learn is all.. (little by little)
thanks