> You can also use a fpga logically programmed to convert 8 bits (the high > order counter byte) into a 5x6 matrix... or 3x10... or something else, and > never needing to use a microcontroller, oscillator, nothing else. And yes, if you're really keen on making it complicated, you can program the FPG A to implement a 4 bit microcontroller core with a small program to solve the problem in "software".. No need for micros then :-----)