A custom LCD display might be the thing that gets you there, at least compared to the dot-matrix or seven-segment ... and developing a test plan for the module. This one shows the testing plan ...

the EM6110 bitmap controller/driver for dot-matrix monochrome TN and STN LCD displays eliminates the need for external components associated with comparable chips. The device operates on 1.8V to 5 ...

What you see here is the side of the PCB which will be facing the underside of the LED dot matrix module. Let’s call this the top of the board. The underside has a CR2032 battery holder which ...