Like the displays on digital clocks, these displays have LED segments that turn on or off to show letters and numbers. To create longer strings of text, position displays end-to-end—power and I2C connections are located on the top and bottom, so they won’t get in the way. Fit standoffs into the mounting holes at each corner to create threaded connections.

When choosing a display, consider the characters and punctuation you'll need. Displays with 14-segment characters create more detailed, legible characters than displays with 7-segment characters. Decimals can show precise readings. Colons are often used to show a clock or timer. Apostrophes can be used for measurements in feet or degrees.

Displays with a driver are quicker to program and wire than those without one, since the driver controls the display with serial communication protocols, such as I2C. Without a driver, each contact must be wired individually and programmed as a separate output from your controller. You’ll also need a resistor to limit the amount of current flowing to the LEDs. Drivers with an ATmega328P microcontroller can store and run programs without being connected to a computer.

Displays with solder pin terminal connections can be mounted through holes on circuit boards. Displays with solder connections require you to solder wires or headers onto them to connect to electronics. Displays with Qwiic connections use compatible Qwiic cords to connect to electronics, so they don’t require soldering.