It has been a while since I last visited. But I have not abandoned the forum.
I have now improved the firmware for my serial LED displays. All XC8 now.
They are pretty easy to use.
There is a webpage containing pictures, and source codes as well.
It is even available for sale, starting at $3.98
http://pic.hitechworld.org/serial_led.html
Based on 16f54 controller.
Also I have now ordered a PCB for larger 2x 16f59 board. It can control 2x 3-digit LCDs.
Prototype PCB see attach. It is a big effort each time to wire up these displays, and to program the decoding.
When I have the PCBs in a few weeks, all I need is 3 wires.