I am trying to make a countdown clock for Christmas using 8 7-segment displays+dp. I'd like it to be as compact as possible; preferably using a nano or esp8266.
I also plan on using an RTC but still have to figure this out.
The bigger issue is driving the displays, I am thinking about using a MAX7221, is this a good idea/will this work for a countdown clock?
I'd love to hear suggestions or other ways to tackle the problem.
Edit: The MAX7219 is also an option.
Yes this is a good chip to use.
Make sure you displays are common cathode
Edit: the MAX7219 is almost identical to the MAX7221, but a bit cheaper and readily available.
You can save some work if you buy an "8-digit display module" that includes the driver chip. They come in an assortment of colors and sizes. The price on Amazon is about $3 each when you buy a few at a time.
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